Soccer fans around the world are super excited for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In just 24 hours, FIFA got more than 1.5 million ticket requests. These came from people in 210 different countries. This big number shows how much everyone loves the sport. The World Cup is the biggest soccer event on the planet. This year, it will be even larger with 48 teams playing. It will happen in three countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. There will be 104 matches in 16 cities. Fans can’t wait to see their favorite players live. Let’s break down this amazing news and what it means for soccer lovers.
1. The Quick Start to Ticket Sales
FIFA launched a presale draw on Wednesday. This is a way for fans to enter a lottery for a chance to buy tickets early. Right away, the demand exploded. By Thursday, over 1.5 million people had signed up. That’s a lot in such a short time! The governing body of world soccer shared this update to show the global hype.
This rush beats past World Cups. For example, in 2022 for Qatar, it took longer to hit big numbers. But 2026 is special. It’s the first time the tournament goes to North America in a while. Plus, the extra teams mean more games and more fun. Fans from everywhere want in on the action.
2. Where the Applications Came From
The top countries sending in requests were the host nations. The United States led the pack, then Mexico and Canada. This makes sense since the games are right there. But fans from far away joined too. Argentina came next, thanks to stars like Lionel Messi. Colombia and Brazil followed, with their huge soccer passion.
Then there were European powerhouses: England, Spain, Portugal, and Germany. These countries have won the World Cup many times. Their fans dream of seeing history repeat. It’s cool to see this mix. It proves soccer brings the world together. No matter where you live, the excitement is the same.
3. Why This World Cup Is So Special
The 2026 tournament is bigger than ever. Instead of 32 teams, there will be 48. That means more matches—104 in total. They will spread across 16 cities in three countries. Think New York, Los Angeles, Mexico City, and Toronto. Each spot has its own vibe, from big stadiums to fun crowds.
This setup lets more fans attend without traveling too far. For North Americans, it’s a dream come true. Europeans and South Americans might fly in for a game or two. The expanded format also gives smaller countries a better shot at glory. Who knows? A surprise team could steal the show.
The logo reveal in Times Square back in May 2023 got everyone talking. That event in New York set the tone for what’s coming. Now, with tickets flying off the virtual shelves, the countdown feels real.
4. How the Ticket Draw Works
Good news: You still have time to enter! The draw stays open until September 19 at 11:00 ET. That’s Thursday night for many. Entering early or late doesn’t matter. Everyone has the same chance. Just go to the FIFA site, sign up, and pick your games.
Winners will get an email starting September 29. Then, from October 1, you’ll have a special window to buy tickets. It’s first-come, first-served in those slots. This fair system helps avoid chaos.
Tickets start cheap at just $60. That’s a great deal for a once-in-a-lifetime event. But watch out for dynamic pricing. In the first sales phase, costs might go up if demand is high in your area. It’s like buying concert tickets—popular games cost more. Don’t worry, though. FIFA plans more sales rounds in October for everyone else.
5. Tips for Fans Hoping to Score Tickets
Want to boost your odds? Enter the draw now if you haven’t. Pick matches that fit your travel plans. Maybe a group stage game in your city or a final in a dream spot. Also, follow FIFA on social media for updates. They post tips and reminders.
If you win, act fast on that email. Slots fill quick. Budget for travel too—hotels and flights will book up. For families, look for kid-friendly packages later. And remember, resale options might pop up, but buy only from official spots to avoid fakes.
This rush shows soccer’s power. Even with streaming, nothing beats live cheers and goals. The 2026 World Cup could break records for attendance.
6. What This Means for Soccer’s Future
Such huge demand is a win for FIFA. It proves the sport grows stronger. The three-host setup shares the spotlight. Mexico hosted in 1970 and 1986—now it’s back. Canada and the US add fresh energy.
Stars like Messi, who might play his last World Cup, draw crowds. Young talents from everywhere will shine. Expect upsets, drama, and magic moments. For businesses, it’s a boom—stadiums, ads, and tourism will thrive.
Fans in 210 countries prove it’s global. From kids kicking balls in streets to pros on pitches, soccer unites us. This ticket frenzy is just the start. By 2026, the world will stop for soccer.
7. Looking Ahead to Kickoff
As the draw closes, more applications will pour in. FIFA must be smiling at these numbers. Successful buyers will plan trips of a lifetime. Others can watch on TV or online. Either way, the buzz is electric.
The New York/New Jersey bid looks set for epic games. That Times Square logo event was a hint of the party ahead. Get ready—2026 will be unforgettable.
In the end, this story is about passion. Over 1.5 million fans in 24 hours? That’s love for the beautiful game. Whether you get tickets or not, the World Cup spirit will touch everyone.
