Global soccer comes to North America for the 2026 Soccer World Cup in its biggest tournament yet. As fans gather for the first continent-spanning edition of the world’s most-watched sporting event, prepare yourself with all the tips on how to buy World Cup tickets and catch a piece of the on-pitch action live.
Tickets for the 2026 Soccer World Cup will be available on Ticketmaster, the home for soccer fans, once seat locations are available.
Whether you’re in the stands or following from home, find everything you need to know about the Soccer World Cup 2026 below.
Navigate to each section using these links:
Buying 2026 World Cup Tickets
When Do World Cup 2026 Tickets Go On Sale & How Are They Released?
Official tickets for the 2026 Soccer World Cup are released on the event’s Web Portal Shop only during specific ticket sale phases. The first phase was in September 2025, and sales will continue through the launch of the tournament. The next availability window to purchase World Cup tickets opens in early April as part of the Last‑Minute Sales Phase.
Alternatively, fans can purchase hospitality tickets, which include premium seats and additional perks, at any time while inventory is available.
Tickets for the 2026 World Cup will be available on Ticketmaster.
How Do I Buy Resale World Cup Tickets Safely?
Soccer fans will have the option to buy World Cup tickets you can trust securely via Ticketmaster. All World Cup tickets purchased on Ticketmaster are mobile and will be delivered in a timely manner, and will feature details like section number, row and seat number.
Listings with specific ticket information before the official release could be speculative tickets and won’t guarantee access to matches. Check back at Ticketmaster when seat locations are announced for the most trusted buying experience.
To get updates on these events, add the tournament itself to your Favorites by visiting the 2026 Soccer World Cup Ticketmaster page and tapping the heart to add to your Favorites.
How Do I Buy Official World Cup 2026 Tickets?
During the final Last-Minute Sales Phase, which opens in early April 2026, World Cup ticket orders will be processed on a first-come, first-served basis with email confirmations sent immediately.
Ticket Delivery, Confirmations & Barcodes – How Does It All Work?
The resale marketplace reopens on Thursday, April 2, 2026 at 11:00 am ET / 8:00 am PT. World Cup tickets purchased on Ticketmaster will be mobile and will feature details like section number, row and seat number.
For the 2026 World Cup, ticket barcodes may be assigned closer to the event (24-48 hours ahead) to help prevent unauthorized ticket sales.
After buying World Cup tickets on Ticketmaster, you will receive an order confirmation email. Note that this email is not your ticket—you will receive your ticket(s) separately.
Note: Your World Cup tickets will be delivered and managed in the FIFA World Cup 2026 app, not the Ticketmaster app.
To access any World Cup tickets that you bought on Ticketmaster, you must create a FIFA ID that matches your Ticketmaster email. Here’s how to purchase and access your World Cup tickets:
1. Purchase World Cup tickets on Ticketmaster, the most trusted ticket marketplace for fans
2. Create an account in the FIFA World Cup 2026 app, making sure the email in your app matches the email you used to purchase tickets at checkout on Ticketmaster
3. You will receive your World Cup mobile tickets via the tournament app
2026 World Cup Host Cities & Stadiums
For the first time, the Soccer World Cup has three host countries: Canada, Mexico and the United States. Adding to the history, Mexico becomes the first country to host the World Cup three times (it previously hosted in 1970 and 1986), while the United States gives its second tour after 1994 and Canada makes its hosting debut. Overall, the tournament totals 16 North American stadiums, with 11 in the United States, three in Mexico and two in Canada.
West
- World Cup Venue Name: San Francisco Bay Area Stadium
- Location: Santa Clara, California (San Francisco Bay Area)
- Capacity: 71,000
- Dates: Friday, June 19, 2026 to Wednesday, July 1, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Six matches total (5 Group Stage and 1 Round of 32)
- Buy Levi’s Stadium tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Los Angeles Stadium
- Location: Inglewood, California (Los Angeles)
- Capacity: 70,000
- Dates: Friday, June 12, 2026 to Friday, July 10, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Eight matches total (five Group Stage, two Round of 32 and one Quarterfinal)
- Buy SoFi Stadium tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Seattle Stadium
- Location: Seattle, Washington
- Capacity: 69,000
- Dates: Monday, June 15, 2026 to Monday, July 6, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Six matches total (four Group Stage, one Round of 32 and one Round of 16)
- Buy Lumen Field tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Vancouver Stadium
- Location: Vancouver, British Columbia
- Capacity: 54,000
- Dates: Saturday, June 13, 2026 to Tuesday, July 7, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Seven matches total (five Group Stage, one Round of 32 and one Round of 16)
- Buy BC Place tickets
Central
- World Cup Venue Name: Dallas Stadium
- Location: Arlington, Texas (Dallas)
- Capacity: 100,000
- Dates: Sunday, June 14, 2026 to July 14, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Nine matches total (five Group Stage, two Round of 32, one Round of 16 and one Semifinal)
- Buy AT&T Stadium tickets
Estadio Banorte
- World Cup Venue Name: Mexico City Stadium
- Location: Coyoacán, Mexico City (Mexico City)
- Capacity: 90,000
- Dates: Thursday, June 11, 2026 to Sunday, July 5, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Five matches total (three Group Stage, one Round of 32 and one Round of 16)
- Buy Estadio Banorte tickets
GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
- World Cup Venue Name: Kansas City Stadium
- Location: Kansas City, Missouri
- Capacity: 73,000
- Dates: Tuesday, June 16, 2026 to Saturday, July 11, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Six matches total (four Group Stage, one Round of 32 and one Quarterfinal)
- Buy GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Houston Stadium
- Location: Houston, Texas
- Capacity: 72,000
- Dates: Sunday, June 14, 2026 to Thursday, July 4, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Seven matches total (five Group Stage, one Round of 32 and one Round of 16)
- Buy NRG Stadium tickets
Estadio BBVA
- World Cup Venue Name: Estadio Monterrey
- Location: Guadalupe, Nuevo León (Monterrey)
- Capacity: 53,500
- Dates: Saturday, June 20, 2026 to Monday, June 29, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Four matches total (three Group Stage and one Round of 32)
- Buy Estadio BBVA tickets
Estadio Akron
- World Cup Venue Name: Guadalajara Stadium
- Location: Zapopan, Jalisco (Guadalajara)
- Capacity: 48,000
- Dates: Sunday, June 14, 2026 to Monday, June 29, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Four matches total (three Group Stage and one Round of 32)
- Buy Estadio Akron tickets
East
BMO Field
- World Cup Venue Name: Toronto Stadium
- Location: Toronto, Ontario
- Capacity: 45,736 (Expanded temporary seating)
- Dates: Friday, June 12, 2026 to Thursday, July 2, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Six matches total (five Group Stage and one Round of 32)
- Buy BMO Field tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Boston Stadium
- Location: Foxborough, Massachusetts (Boston)
- Capacity: 65,000
- Dates: Saturday, June 13, 2026 to Thursday, July 9, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Seven matches total (five Group Stage, one Round of 32 and one Quarterfinal)
- Buy Gillette Stadium tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Miami Stadium
- Location: Miami Gardens, Florida (Miami)
- Capacity: 65,000
- Dates: Monday, June 15, 2026 to Saturday, July 18, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Seven matches total (four Group Stage, one Round of 32, one Quarterfinal and Third-Place Match)
- Buy Hard Rock Stadium tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Philadelphia Stadium
- Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Capacity: 69,000
- Dates: Sunday, June 14, 2026 to Saturday, July 4, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Six matches total (five Group Stage and one Round of 16)
- Buy Lincoln Financial Field tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: Atlanta Stadium
- Location: Atlanta, Georgia
- Capacity: 75,000
- Dates: Monday, June 15, 2026 to Wednesday, July 15, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Eight matches total (five Group Stage, one Round of 32, one Round of 16 and one Semifinal)
- Buy Mercedes-Benz Stadium tickets
- World Cup Venue Name: New York / New Jersey Stadium
- Location: East Rutherford, New Jersey (New York City Area)
- Capacity: 82,500
- Dates: Saturday, June 13, 2026 to Sunday, July 19, 2026
- 2026 World Cup Schedule: Eight matches total (five Group Stage, two Round of 32 and Final)
- Buy MetLife Stadium tickets
Tournament Format & 2026 Match Schedule
How is the 2026 World Cup Structured?
The expanded, 48-team World Cup tournament plays 104 total matches, structured in the following stages:
- Group Stage: June 11 – June 27, 2026 (72 matches)
- Round of 32: June 28 – July 3, 2026 (16 matches)
- Round of 16: July 4 – July 7, 2026 (Eight matches)
- Quarterfinals: July 9 – July 11, 2026 (Four matches)
- Semifinals: July 14 – July 15, 2026 (Two matches)
- Third Place Match: July 18, 2026 (One match)
- Final: July 19, 2026 (One match)
When Do Matches Take Place & How Should Fans Plan?
The 2026 Soccer World Cup begins on Thursday, June 11 and runs through the Final on Sunday, July 19.
Fans trying to time out their perfect trip to the tournament should consider several factors. In earlier rounds, games are played more frequently, which allows traveling fans to maximize their visit with multiple trips to the pitch. While later stage matchups may hold higher stakes, soccer fans have a wider selection of cities, venues and potentially cheaper seats with tickets to the first few rounds.
Keep checking throughout the tournament for last-minute tickets on Ticketmaster’s 2026 Soccer World Cup page.
Travel, Transportation & Border Basics
How Do I Get Around on Match Days in Big Host Cities?
Navigate any World Cup host city with some tried-and-true travel tips, such as:
- Plan transportation ahead of time, whether from an airport, hotel or elsewhere
- Look up the host city’s public transportation options and note any service changes.
- Download a rideshare app and get familiar with using it before arrival.
- Confirm a venue’s designated pickup location.
- Have cash handy to pay for a taxi in the event of phone issues.
- Budget time for traffic and other unexpected entry delays.
What if I’m Traveling Across Borders (U.S., Canada, Mexico)?
Travel is possible for any dedicated soccer fans who have a valid, unexpired passport and either a valid, unexpired visa, travel authorization (eTA to enter Canada or ESTA to enter the United States) or visa exception (if eligible).
Even with a ticket to the 2026 World Cup, fans are still required to secure the proper travel visas and medical documentation to enter any host country. Processing times vary, so submit a visa application as promptly as possible. For fans heading to the United States, opt-in for the tournament’s expedited visa interview process. Verify each country’s travel requirements for the World Cup and find out how to apply for a visa on the tournament’s website.
Are There City‑to‑City Transport Recommendations?
With some smart planning, travel between World Cup host cities can be achieved. To see more than one soccer stadium in the tournament, consider two venues within the same region. By car, cities within about three hours of each other include Seattle-Vancouver, Dallas-Houston, Boston-New York/New Jersey and New York/New Jersey-Philadelphia, which is the shortest drive at about one hour and 40 minutes.
Before making any international travel arrangements, be sure to review each country’s entry requirements and required documentation.
Budget & Cost Expectations
The budget for each World Cup attendee varies based on a number of decisions, but ultimately depends on the experience they’re chasing. Cost expectations will be affected by whether a fan prioritizes seeing as many games as possible, traveling to different venues and locales, saving on a good deal, scoring last-minute tickets on a whim and more.
While commuting between different host cities will inevitably add to the trip’s total, savvy fans can save by picking games at venues relatively close to each other due to the easily accessible highway connections and public transportation options such as trains. Travel by plane leads to potentially higher costs and schedule disruptions, but makes the more spread-out regions more reachable.
Ticket prices will likely remain lowest during the early round games when more games means less competition for seats and the breakout teams have yet to establish themselves. Keep checking throughout the tournament for any last-minute resale tickets via Ticketmaster.
How Much Should I Budget for One Match vs. a Multi‑Match Trip?
A budget to attend one match vs. multiple matches in one trip to the 2026 Soccer World Cup would include considerations such as:
- Ticket Category (categories 1-4 arranged by section/price)
- Resale (prices may vary)
- Airfare
- Lodging (varies by city, location and length of stay)
- Local transportation options
- Meals
- Miscellaneous (merch, events)
East vs. West vs. Central Clusters – Any Cost/Effort Advantages?
The three 2026 Soccer World Cup regions each offer their own benefits. Save on city-to-city travel by shuttling down the Northeast Corridor from Boston to New York/New Jersey to Philadelphia or settle between the two Texas venues in Dallas and Houston. In lieu of short distances between stadiums, the West region offers a different climate and energy to fans with more cost focus going toward staying in one place.
Stadium Entry, Safety & Policies
What are Typical Bag Policies & Prohibited Items?
The bag policies for most stadiums hosting matches in the 2026 Soccer World Cup typically allow clear plastic bags up to 12” x 6” x 12”, one-gallon clear resealable plastic bags and small clutch bags up to 4.5” x 6.5”. For quick and easy bag checks, stick to small, clear bags. Exceptions may be made for medical bags and diaper bags.
Commonly prohibited items include fireworks, hazardous items, weapons, aerosols, inflatables, strollers and large objects. Before packing, verify your destination’s bag and gate entry policies.
How Do Digital Tickets Work on Match Day?
Tickets to the 2026 Soccer World Cup are mobile-only. Fans can access their tickets via their official tournament account prior to heading to the stadium.
How Can I Avoid Ticket Scams and Buy Safely?
For first-hand, face value tickets to the 2026 Soccer World Cup, purchase seats directly from the tournament website during an open phase. For secure resale purchases, visit the event’s resale and exchange marketplace during an open phase or check Ticketmaster once ticket category details have been released.
Any Safety Best Practices in Crowds and Public Zones?
When attending the most popular sporting event on the planet, it’s good practice to have some backup plans. Consider following these tips for navigating the crowds safely:
- Establish meet‑up points and check-ins with your group
- Secure all valuables and personal belongings
- Stay focused and aware in dense viewing areas
- Follow local guidances.
Fan Festivals & Watch Zones
Complete a trip to the World Cup, whether you have tickets or not, by attending the fan festivals and watch zones in nearly all of the 2026 host cities. Bringing together the passion of soccer fans and the spirit of local communities, the World Cup’s fan festivals add an unparalleled, on-the-ground experience every match day. Although fan festivals are tailored to each host city, guests can enjoy free live entertainment, livestreamed soccer matches, food and more.
What is a Fan Festival?
Fan Festival is an all-day event held in a World Cup host city on match days. The traditional fan event launched in 2002 and has expanded every four years into its own showstopping event alongside the World Cup.
Which Host Cities Will Have Fan Festivals/Watch Zones?
Fan Festivals have been announced for Toronto and Vancouver in Canada, Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey in Mexico and Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York/New Jersey and Philadelphia in the United States. Find the complete list of host cities and event details on the Fan Festival events page.
What Can Fans Expect There?
The atmosphere at Fan Festival is energetic, fun and family-friendly. Diehard soccer fans will be able to catch every minute of the match with big screen TVs broadcasting the games, while performances can range from DJs to full concerts. Other activities usually include giveaways, local community showcases, and dedicated family programming.
Is it free? Do I need a ticket?
Typically, Fan Festival allows free entry. However, some cities may require registration, timed entry or capacity controls. Additionally, VIP zones may be paid.
How Early Should I Arrive for Popular Matches?
Guarantee a good viewing space by arriving at Fan Festival about one to two hours before any major matchups or kickoff for late-stage games.
Accessibility & Family Tips
What Accessibility Services Exist?
Each host venue is reserving a dedicated number of tickets for soccer fans with accessibility needs and up to three companions. Accessibility tickets can be purchased during any of the World Cup’s open purchase windows. Companion seating can be requested by filling out the contact form on the tournament website.
To win a bid as a host venue for the 2026 Soccer World Cup, host venues were required to meet certain accessibility standards, such as:
- Barrier-free access from arrival to seating areas
- Accessible transportation and parking infrastructure
- Designated accessible seating areas, including wheelchair seating platforms, in different ticket categories
- Accessible restrooms, concessions, first-aid and medical rooms, merch stands and other service areas
- Communication and wayfinding features for fans with visual, hearing or cognitive disabilities
- Accessible emergency evacuation procedures
Beyond the World Cup event guidelines, host venues may offer additional accessibility services. Visit the specific venue’s Ticketmaster page or website to find its complete accessibility features and accommodations.
How to Make Match Day Smoother with Kids
Keep the World Cup fun for the whole family by making some small adjustments like the following:
- Arrive early.
- Choose aisle seats for easier breaks.
- Bring ear protection.
- Identify family rest zones in the stadium.
- Verify the venue’s policy on stroller access.
- Pack snacks when permitted and plan food and restroom breaks.
- Review the bag policy for diaper bags.
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