Over One Million Tickets Sold as Excitement Builds for FIFA World Cup 2
By Amah Alphonsus Amaonye
November 2, 2025
The global fever for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has already begun, and it’s breaking records long before the first whistle.
FIFA has confirmed that over one million tickets have been sold for the tournament, nearly eight months ahead of the final draw.
The 2026 edition, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marks the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, expanding the global football festival across three nations and more than a dozen cities.
The opening match is slated for June 11, 2026, at Mexico City’s legendary Estadio Azteca.
According to FIFA officials, ticket demand has been “unprecedented,” with the first sales phase, open to Visa cardholders through a random-draw system, attracting millions of applications.
Popular venues in cities like Los Angeles, Dallas, and Toronto reported near-instant sellouts for key group matches.
“The enthusiasm we’re seeing from fans worldwide underscores how special this World Cup will be,” a FIFA spokesperson said. “It’s not just about football; it’s about cultural connection across borders.”
Meanwhile, host cities across North America are ramping up preparations.
Kansas City recently unveiled plans for a massive FIFA Fan Festival, promising live music, global cuisines, and giant screens for fans who can’t secure stadium seats.
Similar fan zones are being developed in New York, Vancouver, and Guadalajara to ensure inclusive experiences for millions of supporters.
Despite the excitement, the hospitality sector is seeing mixed signals. Hotel analysts report that while bookings are expected to surge closer to the event, current demand remains “softer than anticipated,” as many fans wait for travel packages or better flight deals.
Security planning is also intensifying. The U.S. Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) has begun coordinating resources to secure major venues, highlighting the scale of logistics involved in hosting the world’s largest sporting event.
In Africa, attention remains fixed on the final qualification rounds in Rabat, Morocco, where nations including Nigeria, Cameroon, and DR Congo will battle for the last African slot later this month.
The outcome could shape the African continent’s representation on football’s biggest stage.
As anticipation mounts, one thing is clear — the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be the most ambitious, inclusive, and globally connected tournament in football history.
Sidebar: Fast Facts
- Hosts: USA, Canada, Mexico
- Teams: 48 (up from 32)
- Opening Match: June 11, 2026 – Estadio Azteca, Mexico City
- Final: July 19, 2026 – MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
- Tickets Sold So Far: 1,000,000+
