As the clock ticks down to the 2026 World Cup, fans around the world are asking: when will general ticket sales begin, and what will the prices look like? Although FIFA has not yet launched full public sales for all matches, important updates have emerged regarding sales windows, pricing mechanisms and VIP packages.

General Ticket Sales Timeline

General ticket sales are set to begin on September 10, 2025, when any registered fan with a FIFA ID can purchase tickets via the official FIFA portal. Before that, a Visa cardholder pre-sale lottery will run from September 10 to 19, with successful applicants able to buy tickets in October 2025. Multiple waves of general sales will follow, details of which are expected to be announced by FIFA in September.

Estimated Ticket Prices by Tournament Stage

While costs will vary by stadium and seating category, these are FIFA’s estimated price ranges in USD for the general sale:

Opening match: $353 – $706
Group stage: $82 – $259
Round of 16: $118 – $318
Quarterfinals: $235 – $494
Semifinals: $412 – $1,118
Final: $706 – $1,882

New Pricing Approach: Dynamic Pricing

FIFA is considering implementing dynamic pricing, a model that adjusts ticket costs based on demand. This could result in significantly higher prices for marquee matches, especially outside the host nations of the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Tickets for supporters’ clubs may be exempt, but the system has already drawn criticism for potentially limiting access for regular fans.

VIP and Hospitality Packages: Premium Experiences

For fans seeking premium experiences, hospitality packages are already on sale. In Mexico, VIP options for selected matches not involving the host nation range between $1,847 and $4,180. In the United States, packages through On Location begin at around $1,525 for single matches and reach elite options such as the Pitchside Lounge Standard+ at $24,850 in Houston.

Packages in New York and New Jersey rank among the most expensive, ranging from $25,800 to an extraordinary $73,200 depending on amenities. Structured packages like the U.S. Venue Series, U.S. Four-Match Series, and Follow My Team Series cater to different preferences. In Houston, Venue Series packages start at $10,375 for the FIFA Pavilion, go up to $15,000 for the Champions Club, $19,895 for VIP experiences, and top out at $23,200 for the Pitchside Lounge. Follow My Team packages typically begin around $6,750, covering group matches and the Round of 32. International demand has pushed certain team-specific packages even higher, with examples such as $9,950 for England and $8,950 for Spain.

Key Dates and Preparation Advice

The 2026 World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The tournament will feature a record 48 teams and 104 matches. The opening match is scheduled for June 11, likely at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, while the final will be held on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

With general sales opening in September and hospitality packages already available, fans are strongly advised to register for a FIFA ID and purchase only through the official FIFA platform to avoid fraud. FIFA’s official resale marketplace will provide a safer option for those seeking tickets on the secondary market.