The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already sparking excitement, with over 1 million tickets sold just weeks into the sales period—and the demand is nothing short of staggering. But here’s where it gets controversial: the U.S. is leading the charge, alongside Canada and Mexico, the three host nations. Is this a sign of genuine global interest, or are locals simply capitalizing on home-field advantage? Let’s dive in.
FIFA revealed on Thursday that fans from 212 countries and territories have already secured their spots, even though only 28 of the 48 participating teams have been confirmed. That’s right—people are betting big on this tournament, and the enthusiasm is infectious. Rounding out the top 10 ticket-buying nations are football powerhouses like England, Germany, Brazil, Spain, Colombia, Argentina, and France. With the tournament kicking off on June 11 and running through July 19, it’s clear this event is capturing imaginations worldwide.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino couldn’t hide his excitement: “This is a watershed moment for football in North America, and the response from fans has been incredible. It’s a testament to the inclusive spirit of this historic World Cup.” But here’s the kicker: tickets for the final in East Rutherford, New Jersey, are already reselling for up to $57,500 per seat. Is this a celebration of the sport, or has it become a luxury only the wealthy can afford? Let’s discuss.
For context, the first round of ticket sales was determined by a lottery, with 4.5 million applicants vying for a chance. The next draw opens on October 27, offering single-match tickets for all 104 games, as well as venue- and team-specific options. But with roughly 7.1 million seats available across 16 North American venues, how many will actually make it into the hands of everyday fans? And this is the part most people miss: FIFA hasn’t released a detailed price grid for tickets, a standard practice since at least 1990. What’s the story there?
Ticket prices are a hot topic. While the lowest-priced seats start at $60 for at least 40 matches, the majority of tickets are significantly higher. For example, the U.S. opening match in Inglewood, California, had prices ranging from $560 to $2,735—and one resale ticket was listed for a jaw-dropping $61,642. FIFA’s new dynamic pricing model means costs will fluctuate, but is this democratizing access or creating exclusivity? Share your thoughts below.
Adding to the buzz, NBA star Luka Doncic—a Real Madrid fan and native of Slovenia—has been named an ambassador for the World Cup matches in Southern California. Speaking four languages, Doncic is the perfect bridge between cultures, emphasizing football’s global appeal. “Los Angeles is a city that loves sports, and I’m honored to help bring people together through football,” he said. But with such high-profile endorsements, are we losing sight of the sport’s grassroots origins?
As we count down to 2026, one thing is clear: this World Cup is shaping up to be unlike any other. But at what cost? Is FIFA prioritizing profit over accessibility? Or is this the price of hosting the biggest, most inclusive tournament in history? Let us know what you think in the comments—this conversation is just getting started.
