Race for 2026 FIFA World Cup tickets begins as fans eye historic tournament
The tournament will be historic on two fronts: it will be the first ever World Cup jointly hosted by three nations – the United States, Canada and Mexico – and it will feature a record 48 teams.
With less than a year to go before the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off, football supporters worldwide – including here in Kenya – are preparing for their chance to secure seats at the globe’s biggest sporting spectacle.
The tournament will be historic on two fronts: it will be the first ever World Cup jointly hosted by three nations – the United States, Canada and Mexico – and it will feature a record 48 teams.
More To Read
- All-Somali referee team makes history in charge of 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier
- Benni McCarthy praises ruthless Harambee Stars after 5-0 thumping of Seychelles
- Harambee Stars thrash Seychelles 5-0 in dominant World Cup qualifier win
- Morocco becomes first African team to qualify for 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Harambee Stars’ World Cup dreams fade after 3-1 defeat to Gambia
- Morocco to set up courts in stadiums to tackle fan offences at 2030 World Cup
Matches are set to be played across 16 host cities, offering fans countless opportunities to experience the thrill of top-tier international football.
Ticketing process opens
FIFA has confirmed that ticket sales will take place in three phases. The first phase opened on Wednesday, September 10, at 6:00 pm Kenyan time. During this stage, fans who have a FIFA ID and a Visa card are eligible to enter a presale ballot. Registration will remain open until Friday, September 19, at 6:00 pm Kenyan time.
Successful applicants will be informed on September 29 and given specific time slots to purchase tickets from October 1. All 104 matches will be available at this stage on a first-come, first-served basis. Ticket prices for the group stage start from about Sh8,000 (USD 60), while the most expensive seats – for the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey – are priced at around KES 1.1 million (USD 6,730).
The second phase is expected to commence in late October, with an “Early Ticket Draw” set between October 27-31. Winners will then be allocated time slots, likely running from mid-November to early December, to purchase their tickets.
The third and final phase will follow the official World Cup draw on December 5, when the groupings and full fixture schedule will be announced. At that point, fans will be able to apply for tickets to specific matches.
FIFA has also confirmed that any unsold tickets will be released closer to the tournament on a first-come, first-served basis. An official resale platform will be available, designed to protect fans from fraudulent or unauthorised sales. Hospitality packages for certain venues are already on offer.
Heavy demand, early glitches
As anticipated, the first day of registration was not without issues. Fans reported delays, extended waiting times in virtual queues and occasional disconnections from the site.
A FIFA spokesperson reassured supporters that these technical hitches would not affect fairness in the ballot. “The timing of registration within the entry window does not influence a fan’s chances of being selected,” the spokesperson said. “Everyone who registers before September 19 has an equal opportunity.”
Top Stories Today
