The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 has ignited an unprecedented frenzy among football fans worldwide, setting a staggering new benchmark for ticket demand before a single match has been played.
Unprecedented Global Demand for Football's Biggest Show
According to the latest figures released by FIFA, the Random Selection Draw phase for the 2026 World Cup has been flooded with more than 150 million ticket requests. This monumental number comes from supporters in over 200 different countries, showcasing the tournament's truly global reach. At the current halfway point of the draw, the event is already oversubscribed by more than 30 times, based solely on verified applications linked to individual credit cards.
To put this historic demand into perspective, the number of ticket requests is a staggering 3.4 times higher than the total combined live attendance for every single FIFA World Cup held since the inaugural tournament in 1930. This statistic alone highlights the explosive growth and undiminished appeal of the world's most popular sport.
Tournament Details and Fan Accessibility
FIFA President Gianni Infantino hailed the extraordinary response, labeling the 2026 edition as "the greatest and most inclusive show on the planet." The tournament is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be a historic first, co-hosted by three nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The expanded format will feature 48 teams battling it out in a record-breaking 104 matches across 16 host cities. In a significant move to ensure broader access, FIFA has introduced a Supporter Entry Tier, which will offer tickets at a fixed, affordable price of USD 60 per match.
How to Apply for World Cup Tickets
The Random Selection Draw process remains the fairest method for this high-demand event. Importantly, all applicants have an equal chance of securing tickets, regardless of when they submitted their request during the open window. Football enthusiasts still have time to throw their hat in the ring, as the draw will remain open until January 13, 2026.
This record-shattering demand underscores football's unique power to unite the world. As the countdown to 2026 continues, fans from Pakistan and every corner of the globe are eagerly awaiting their chance to witness history in the making across North America.
