Ticket demand for the 2026 World Cup has already broken records, with over five million requests submitted in just 24 hours, according to FIFA. This surge comes as the tournament enters a new ticket lottery phase, underscoring the extraordinary global excitement surrounding this expanded edition of the competition.
Leading the list of most sought-after matches is the high-profile clash between Colombia and Portugal, scheduled for June 27 in Miami. Hot on its heels is the blockbuster showdown between Brazil and Morocco, set for June 13 in New York/New Jersey—a game that’s attracting massive attention from fans around the world. Three other matches round out the top five: Mexico vs. South Korea in Guadalajara, Ecuador vs. Germany in New York/New Jersey, and Scotland vs. Brazil in Miami.
What these five fixtures have in common is their international appeal. Teams from five different continents are represented, and the global demand reflects just how diverse the World Cup fanbase has become. Ticket requests have poured in from more than 200 countries and territories via FIFA’s official ticketing platform.
Beyond the host nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—the most active fan bases include residents of Colombia, England, Ecuador, Brazil, Argentina, Scotland, Germany, Australia, France, and Panama. Scotland’s return to the World Cup after nearly three decades is also fueling a notable wave of enthusiasm, particularly among European supporters.
Fans still have time to submit their ticket applications. The window remains open until Tuesday, January 13 at 11 a.m. Eastern Time. Importantly, submitting early does not improve one’s chances, as the lottery system is random. Each household is allowed to select specific matches, choose their preferred ticket category, and request multiple seats within the set limits.
For those who change their plans, FIFA will launch an official resale platform starting December 15. All details about the process—including how the lottery works, legal terms, and a full FAQ—can be found on FIFA.com/tickets. Applying for tickets doesn’t require upfront payment, but if a request is selected, the amount will be automatically charged to the card on file. FIFA also notes that only adults are eligible to submit applications.
