Football fans across the UK are gearing up for the highly anticipated FIFA 2026 World Cup, with the tournament draw set to take place this Friday evening. Supporters of England and Scotland will finally discover their nations' group stage opponents for next year's major event. For those dreaming of attending, the process of securing match tickets is now a top priority.
The Official Path to Your 2026 World Cup Seat
The first and most critical rule for prospective attendees is to use only the official FIFA ticketing website. This platform is the sole legitimate source for match tickets, and fans are strongly advised to avoid all third-party vendors to prevent fraud and ensure their purchases are valid.
Before you can even browse available options, you must register for a free FIFA ID account. This personal identifier is mandatory for participating in any official ticket sales phase, from initial lotteries to final purchases.
Navigating the Ticket Sales Phases
FIFA does not release all tickets at once. Instead, sales are conducted in several planned stages over the coming months. The process typically starts with random selection draws, also known as lotteries, and concludes with a last-minute sales phase closer to the tournament.
For the initial general sales, most tickets are allocated via a lottery system. Fans submit an application for their desired matches and hope their name is drawn in the random selection. Crucially, your payment method will only be charged if your application is successful.
If you miss out in the early phases, keep an eye out for the last-minute sales phase, expected in the spring of 2026. This final sale operates on a first-come, first-served basis for any remaining unsold tickets.
Alternative Routes and Guaranteed Access
For those seeking a premium experience and a guaranteed ticket, FIFA offers official hospitality packages through its provider, On Location. These all-inclusive options bypass the lottery system but come at a significantly higher price point.
Fans can also explore their national team's allocation. If England or Scotland qualify, their respective football federations will receive a batch of tickets. To be eligible, supporters usually need to be registered members of the official national team supporters' club.
Finally, if a match is officially sold out, the only safe place to look for tickets is the official FIFA resale marketplace. This platform, which will open closer to the event, allows fans to sell their tickets to other fans at face value, providing a secure and legitimate secondary market.
With the draw imminent and excitement building, understanding this ticketing process is the first step towards securing a seat at football's greatest spectacle.
