FIFA World Cup 2026: Unprecedented Ticket Demand and Travel Opportunities Across North America

Published on January 1, 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 has become more than just a sporting event; it is quickly turning into a global travel phenomenon. With over 150 million ticket requests submitted from 200 countries, the 2026 World Cup is already breaking all records for ticket demand, and it’s only the midway point of the Random Selection Draw ticketing phase.

This overwhelming demand isn’t just a reflection of football fans’ enthusiasm but also signals the growing role of major global events in shaping travel decisions. With matches set to be hosted across three North American countries, Canada, Mexico, and the United States, travellers are eagerly planning trips around these historic events. From securing tickets to booking accommodations and exploring new destinations, the World Cup offers unparalleled opportunities for tourism.

FIFA World Cup 2026: A Dream Event for Travellers

As one of the world’s biggest sporting spectacles, the 2026 World Cup offers much more than football matches. With 48 teams competing in 104 matches across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the tournament is a once-in-a-lifetime travel opportunity for fans and tourists.

The high demand for tickets has not only created a frenzy among football fans but also tourism professionals, with North America preparing for a significant influx of international visitors. Major cities such as Los Angeles, Mexico City, Toronto, and New York are gearing up to welcome visitors, offering a rich variety of cultural, historical, and entertainment experiences beyond the matches.

For travellers, the World Cup will be an opportunity to explore iconic North American cities while enjoying football’s most thrilling action. Whether it’s exploring New York’s iconic landmarks, indulging in Mexico City’s vibrant food scene, or experiencing Toronto’s cultural festivals, the World Cup serves as a gateway to rich travel experiences that go beyond the game itself.

How FIFA World Cup 2026 Ticketing Shapes Travel Plans

The Random Selection Draw for FIFA World Cup tickets opened on December 11, 2025, and will close on January 13, 2026, giving fans a chance to secure their spots at the games. But ticket demand isn’t just about securing a seat, it’s about building a travel itinerary around a major event. The overwhelming demand for tickets highlights the growing trend of fans planning entire trips around events they are passionate about.

This shift is evident in the travel behaviour of younger generations, particularly those aged 18–34, who are increasingly booking flights, hotels, and experiences specifically for events like the World Cup. The supporter entry tier, with tickets priced at USD 60, makes attending more affordable, allowing fans to extend their travel experiences and explore the host cities at an accessible cost.

The timing of the ticket application process doesn’t affect success in the draw, ensuring that all fans have equal chances. After this phase, additional ticket sales will continue as more seats become available, giving fans more opportunities to join the global football celebration.

A Major Tourism Boost for North America

As FIFA World Cup 2026 heads into its final phases of ticket sales, North American tourism is experiencing a major boost. The three host countries are investing in tourism infrastructure to accommodate the anticipated millions of visitors expected to travel to the World Cup cities. Hotels, restaurants, and local attractions are preparing for the surge in visitors who will not only be attending matches but also taking the opportunity to explore the diverse regions.

For international travellers, the World Cup provides an exciting excuse to explore new destinations. Those attending matches in Los Angeles could also take a road trip along California’s Pacific Coast, while those in Mexico City can indulge in the city’s rich history and cuisine. The unique blend of football and tourism will allow guests to experience North America’s cultural richness and iconic sights like never before.

An Inclusive Event for All Fans

The Supporter Entry Tier introduced by FIFA ensures that the World Cup 2026 remains accessible to fans of all backgrounds. With a fixed price of USD 60 per ticket, this tier helps make the tournament more affordable for fans seeking to witness history in person. This tier will be distributed through FIFA’s Participating Member Associations, ensuring that tickets are available to both local fans and international travellers.

FIFA’s efforts to provide affordable access reflect a broader commitment to making the World Cup experience inclusive and accessible. Fans are expected to travel in greater numbers than ever before, with ticket demand proving that the World Cup 2026 is more than just a sports event, it’s a global celebration of unity, passion, and culture.

A Monumental Travel Opportunity for 2026

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be an event of historic proportions, drawing in millions of football fans and tourists from across the globe. With 150 million ticket requests, unprecedented demand for World Cup travel experiences is reshaping how people approach event‑based tourism. The combination of affordable tickets, expanded fan zones, and global participation makes the 2026 World Cup a once-in-a-lifetime experience for both sports fans and global travellers.

For fans eager to explore North America while celebrating the best of football, the 2026 FIFA World Cup offers the perfect blend of sporting action and cultural exploration, making it the most anticipated travel event in the coming years.