The main ticket ballot for next summer’s World Cup in North America is set to open on Thursday, giving fans their first opportunity to secure tickets since the official draw and full match schedule were announced last week.
With matches set to be played across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, demand is expected to be overwhelming. However, Fifa’s ticketing strategy has already sparked controversy, with supporter groups warning about record-high prices and potential financial risks for travelling fans.
From the earlier sales phase, ticket prices ranged from £45 to a staggering £5,915, highlighting the wide cost gap between general admission and premium hospitality packages.
How Does the World Cup Ticket Ballot Work?
Fans can apply for tickets from 16:00 GMT on Thursday by visiting Fifa’s official ticketing website.
Here’s how the process works:
- Each household can apply for up to four tickets per match
- A maximum of 40 tickets per household across the tournament
- Applications remain open until 13 January 2026
- There is no advantage in applying early — all applications are treated equally
- Once the window closes, tickets will be allocated through a random lottery
- Successful applicants will be notified by email in February
- If selected, payment will be taken automatically from the registered account
Will Dynamic Pricing Be Used?
Fifa has confirmed that dynamic pricing will not apply during the main ballot phase. This means:
- Prices will not increase during the ballot window
- What you see on opening day is the same price throughout
- Prices are pre-set based on expected match demand
However, prices will still vary from game to game, with high-profile fixtures such as opening matches and knockout games expected to be significantly more expensive.
As of now, Fifa has not released an official price list, but applicants will see ticket costs once the ballot opens.
What Are Category 4 Tickets?
Fifa has described Category 4 tickets as the most affordable “entry point” into the tournament.
However, supporter groups such as Football Supporters Europe have warned:
- Category 4 seats appear to be extremely limited
- Most stadium seating falls under Categories 1 and 2 (the more expensive tiers)
- Availability of Category 4 tickets remains uncertain
Stadium maps released by Fifa suggest premium tickets dominate seating plans, particularly in major venues such as Dallas and Miami.
Other Ways to Get World Cup Tickets
1. National FA Allocations
Each country participating in the tournament receives 8% of tickets for their matches.
For example:
- England and Scotland supporters can apply through their official supporters’ clubs
- Applications open from 15 December to 13 January
- Allocation is decided by loyalty points
- Tickets cannot be resold via Fifa’s marketplace
2. Fifa Ticket Resale Marketplace
Fifa operates its own official resale platform where fans can:
- Resell tickets at any price they choose
- Buyers and sellers are charged a 15% fee each
- Fifa claims revenue is reinvested into football development
Fans are warned that tickets purchased through unofficial platforms may be cancelled without notice.
Currently, unofficial resale listings for group matches are already exceeding £450 in some cases.
3. Hospitality Packages
Supporters seeking guaranteed entry can purchase hospitality tickets.
These packages offer:
- Lounge access
- Premium seating
- Fine dining
Prices run into the thousands of pounds, and “Platinum Access” options even promote private jet experiences.
4. Final Ticket Release (First-Come, First-Served)
Any remaining tickets closer to the tournament will be sold through standard online release.
This phase is expected to involve dynamic pricing, where Fifa may manually adjust costs based on demand.
Do You Need a Visa to Attend?
Holding a World Cup ticket does not guarantee entry into the host nations.
Fans must comply with individual country visa rules:
- USA: ESTA or visitor visa required depending on nationality
- Canada: Visa or eTA required
- Mexico: Visa-free entry for many passport holders
US embassies are prioritising visa appointments for ticket holders, but fans are urged to apply early.
Final Word
While the opening of the World Cup ticket ballot offers fans a chance to attend the biggest sporting event on the planet, pricing concerns and restricted affordable seating have raised serious questions about accessibility.
If you’re planning to attend, act fast, plan carefully, and make sure you apply through official channels only.
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