FIFA has confirmed that over 1 million tickets for the 2026 World Cup have already been sold following the pre-sale draw phase. Fans from more than 212 countries and territories have secured seats for the historic tournament, which will be the first 48-team World Cup jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Record-breaking demand ahead of North America 2026
With excitement soaring ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the governing body announced a remarkable milestone — over one million tickets sold during the early pre-sale draw phase. Fans from around the globe rushed to secure their seats for what promises to be the biggest and most inclusive edition in the tournament’s history.
According to FIFA, supporters from 212 nations and territories participated in the pre-sale, highlighting football’s universal appeal. Unsurprisingly, fans from the United States, Canada, and Mexico — the three host nations — accounted for the majority of purchases.
Infantino hails “watershed event” for world football
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the overwhelming global response, calling the milestone “a watershed event in North America.” He emphasized that the early demand reflects both the sport’s worldwide passion and the significance of the 2026 edition.
What an exciting step on our journey toward 2026,” Infantino said. As national teams across the globe compete for a place at the historic FIFA World Cup, I’m thrilled so many fans want to be part of this landmark event. This is a wonderful sign that the biggest, most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history is capturing imaginations everywhere.
The biggest World Cup in history
The 2026 World Cup marks a number of firsts:
- It will be co-hosted by three countries — the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
- The tournament expands to 48 teams for the first time.
- Over 100 matches will be played across 16 cities, from Los Angeles and Toronto to Mexico City and New York.
FIFA confirmed that the next ticketing phase, the Early Ticket Draw, opens on October 27, giving more fans the chance to secure seats for what’s shaping up to be a record-breaking event.
Anticipation builds as qualification nears completion
With 28 of the 48 participating nations already qualified, attention now turns to the official World Cup draw, scheduled for December 5 in Washington, D.C.
As football’s biggest showpiece inches closer, the surge in ticket demand underscores one thing — the world is ready for the first-ever 48-team World Cup in North America, a tournament set to redefine global football on and off the pitch.
