FIFA receives over 1.5 million ticket requests in first 24 hours for 2026 World Cup

NEW YORK: FIFA announced on Thursday that more than 1.5 million ticket applications from fans in 210 countries were received within 24 hours of launching the presale draw for the 2026 World Cup.

The overwhelming demand came largely from host nations the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with strong interest also recorded from Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, England, Spain, Portugal, and Germany.

The unprecedented global response underscores the international appeal of the expanded 48-team tournament, which will feature 104 matches across 16 host cities in North America.

The ticket application window remains open until September 19 at 11:00 ET (17:00 CET), with successful applicants set to be notified from September 29. Ticket purchases for those selected will begin on October 1.

The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Mexico, Canada, and the U.S., is expected to be the largest and most attended edition in the tournament’s history.