FIFA World Cup 2026: Unprecedented Ticket Demand Makes History
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has set a new record with over 150 million ticket requests at the midpoint of the Random Selection Draw phase, showcasing the global passion for football. FIFA President Gianni Infantino hails the overwhelming response as a testament to the game's universal appeal and previews the most inclusive World Cup in history.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has generated unprecedented demand, with approximately 150 million ticket requests submitted during the first half of the current Random Selection Draw ticketing phase. Interest from fans in more than 200 countries means the tournament - hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico - is oversubscribed by a factor of roughly 30.More than 150 million ticket requests have been submitted so far by fans from over 200 countries, highlighting the truly global reach of the tournament as reported by FIFA. Based on verified individual credit card entries, the current ticketing phase has left the competition oversubscribed by more than 30 times, reflecting demand that far exceeds available inventory at this early stage. Since opening on Dec. 11, the ticketing phase has generated remarkable interest that surpasses all previous tournaments. FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the response as a clear demonstration of football’s universal appeal. He emphasized that the scale of requests within the first two weeks illustrates how deeply the sport resonates worldwide and sets the stage for what FIFA expects to be the most inclusive and far-reaching World Cup in history. “The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the greatest and most inclusive show on the planet, with more than 150 million tickets already requested in only the first 15 days, making this edition 30 times oversubscribed - a true showcase of incredible demand from fans from over 200 countries,” Infantino said in the press release. “This overwhelming response from passionate fans is a true representation of how our game is loved globally - we are going to make history in North America when we bring the world together like never before in a celebration of unity and the best of football.” The figures place the 2026 tournament in rare territory, with demand already exceeding several times the cumulative attendance of every World Cup match played since 1930. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and 16 host cities spread across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the expanded format represents a significant evolution in the competition’s structure and global footprint.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingThe Random Selection Draw ticketing phase remains open until Jan. 13, with all valid applications carrying equal weight regardless of submission timing. Fans who are unsuccessful in this round will still have opportunities in later sales phases as additional tickets are released ahead of the tournament’s opening match on June 11.
Unprecedented Demand and Global Reach
The FIFA World Cup 2026 has garnered remarkable interest, with over 150 million ticket requests received from fans in more than 200 countries. This oversubscription by a factor of 30 highlights the widespread appeal and anticipation surrounding the tournament, hosted jointly by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The scale of requests within the first two weeks of the ticketing phase surpasses all previous editions, portraying the immense popularity and universal love for football.
FIFA President's Perspective
FIFA President Gianni Infantino commended the immense response from fans, emphasizing the 2026 World Cup as a historic event that unites the global football community. With over 150 million ticket requests in just 15 days, the tournament is already 30 times oversubscribed, indicating an unprecedented level of demand. Infantino envisions the upcoming World Cup to be the most inclusive and far-reaching in history, showcasing the sport's ability to bring people together.
Evolution of the Tournament
The 2026 World Cup marks a significant evolution with 48 teams, 104 matches, and 16 host cities across North America. The expanded format represents a monumental shift in the competition's structure and global presence, setting the stage for a unique and unforgettable football spectacle. The demand for tickets already exceeds the cumulative attendance of all matches played in past World Cups, underlining the exceptional anticipation and excitement surrounding the upcoming event.
Future Ticket Sales
The Random Selection Draw ticketing phase will continue until January 13, with all valid applications receiving equal consideration. Fans who are unsuccessful in this round will have further opportunities in subsequent sales phases as additional tickets become available leading up to the tournament's opening match on June 11. The FIFA World Cup 2026 promises to be a historic moment in football history, celebrating unity, diversity, and the unparalleled passion of fans worldwide.




