As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, soccer fans worldwide are eagerly awaiting the opportunity to secure tickets. The first phase of the ticket presale officially kicked off on September 10, 2025, and will run until September 19, 2025, offering a golden opportunity for Visa cardholders to get their hands on tickets early. Here’s a closer look at the presale process, including what went well, what to expect, and how you can still secure your spot at one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
Key Aspects of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Ticket Presale
The initial presale phase, exclusive to Visa cardholders with a registered FIFA ID account, opened up as part of the broader ticket sales plan for the 2026 World Cup. While the concept of presale windows isn’t new, the lottery-style draw system has garnered significant attention, as it offers all registered fans an equal chance of securing tickets, regardless of when they sign up during the presale period.
- Lottery-style draw: Fans had to register for a chance to be selected randomly to purchase tickets. Crucially, the timing of registration did not affect the chances of selection, meaning fans who registered on the first day had the same odds as those who waited until the last day of the window.
- Challenges during presale: Many fans encountered long wait times and technical difficulties during the early hours of the presale. Issues like digital waiting rooms with long queues and error messages frustrated eager fans. FIFA cited the extraordinary demand for tickets as the primary reason behind these challenges, which is a good sign for the event’s popularity and for future ticketing systems.
- Notification and purchase window: Fans who were successful in the lottery will be notified starting September 29, 2025, and will receive a personalized time slot for purchasing tickets. This purchase window is set to begin on October 1, 2025, and will continue on a first-come, first-served basis for all 104 matches, including the highly anticipated games at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
MetLife Stadium: A Key Venue for the 2026 World Cup
One of the highlights of the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the matches held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. The stadium will host eight matches, including the coveted final match on July 19, 2026. This prestigious venue has long been a major sports hub in the region, and its inclusion in the World Cup roster has generated a great deal of excitement.
However, those hoping to attend the final match may want to prepare for sticker shock. Ticket prices for the final at MetLife Stadium are expected to range from $6,000 to $7,000—reflecting both the event’s significance and the dynamic pricing model being used for the tournament. Given the demand for tickets to such an iconic event, those interested in attending the final match should act quickly once the purchase window opens.
Ticket Pricing and Dynamic Pricing Model
For the first time, FIFA is employing a dynamic pricing strategy for the 2026 World Cup. This means that ticket prices will fluctuate based on demand. The initial pricing for group-stage matches starts at around $60, while tickets for the final can reach up to $6,730. These initial prices are subject to change, as FIFA adjusts costs based on factors such as availability and demand.
Experts, such as Christopher Anderson, a professor at Cornell’s SC Johnson College of Business, have noted that prices tend to be higher early on in the sales process. However, there may be opportunities for discounted prices in the middle phase of ticket sales before prices surge again as the event draws nearer. This insight could prove valuable for those looking to find a good deal without paying full price.
What’s Next? Phases 2 and 3
If you weren’t lucky enough to secure tickets during the initial presale, there are still several chances to get your hands on them:
- Phase 2 – Early Ticket Draw: Registration for the second phase of ticket sales is set to begin between October 27 and October 31, 2025. This phase will be open to the general public, so it’s a great opportunity for those who missed out on the Visa presale. Successful applicants will be assigned a purchase time slot, which will likely take place between mid-November and early December 2025.
- Phase 3 – Random Selection Draw: This final phase of ticket sales will occur after the tournament draw on December 5, 2025. It allows fans to apply for tickets to specific matches once the official schedule is released. This is a critical phase for those hoping to catch a specific match, as it will provide more clarity on which teams will be playing at which venues.
- Remaining Tickets: If you’ve missed out during the previous phases, you may still have a chance to purchase tickets once the tournament gets closer. Any leftover tickets will be made available on a first-come, first-served basis, offering another opportunity to attend the world’s biggest soccer event.
Keep Track of Your Ticket Status
Whether you’re looking for group-stage tickets or hoping to attend the final match, it’s essential to stay on top of the process and know where you stand. After registering for any of the presale phases, be sure to check your ticket status regularly. You can do so through the official FIFA website or by keeping an eye on updates through the FIFA Ticketing Hub.
As with all major sporting events, it’s critical to act quickly and remain flexible, especially with the dynamic pricing model and limited availability of tickets. If you’re still looking to secure your spot at this once-in-a-lifetime event, consider following the updates closely, applying in the second phase, or waiting for the remaining tickets to become available.
The Soccer Scene in New Jersey
For fans of soccer in New Jersey, the 2026 FIFA World Cup is a monumental event, not only because of the chance to watch world-class teams battle it out but also because of the local impact it will have. MetLife Stadium, one of the most iconic sports venues in the country, is a central hub for this global event, and the excitement around the tournament is already palpable in the region.
If you’re looking to stay updated on all things related to soccer in New Jersey—whether it’s about the World Cup or the state’s growing love for the sport—be sure to visit Explore New Jersey’s dedicated soccer section. With regular updates, event news, and community stories, we’ve got everything you need to stay informed about the beautiful game in the Garden State.
From local soccer leagues to major international tournaments, New Jersey is truly becoming a hub for soccer enthusiasts. Whether you’re gearing up for the World Cup or just following the local scene, there’s no better place to stay connected to all things soccer than here.
