Frequently Asked Questions

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026. It will be co-hosted by three countries: the United States (11 venues), Mexico (3 venues), and Canada (2 venues). This marks the first World Cup hosted by three nations and the first with 48 participating teams. The opening match will take place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, 2026. The final will be held at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (New York metro area) on July 19, 2026.

World Cup 2026 will feature 48 teams (expanded from 32) playing a total of 104 matches: • Group Stage: 48 matches across 12 groups of 4 teams each • Round of 32: 16 matches (top 2 from each group advance) • Round of 16: 8 matches • Quarter-finals: 4 matches • Semi-finals: 2 matches • Third-place match: 1 match • Final: 1 match The expanded format means more football, more opportunities to attend matches, and a longer tournament duration of 39 days.

The 16 host cities are: United States (11 cities): • New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium) - Final venue • Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium) • Dallas (AT&T Stadium) • Miami (Hard Rock Stadium) • Atlanta (Mercedes-Benz Stadium) • Seattle (Lumen Field) • San Francisco (Levi's Stadium) • Houston (NRG Stadium) • Philadelphia (Lincoln Financial Field) • Kansas City (GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium) • Boston (Gillette Stadium) Mexico (3 cities): • Mexico City (Estadio Azteca) - Opening match venue • Guadalajara (Estadio Akron) • Monterrey (Estadio BBVA) Canada (2 cities): • Toronto (BMO Field) • Vancouver (BC Place)

World Cup 2026 introduces several historic firsts: 1. First World Cup with 48 teams (up from 32) 2. First World Cup co-hosted by three countries 3. First World Cup in North America since 1994 4. Most matches in history (104, up from 64) 5. Longest tournament duration (39 days) 6. Largest combined stadium capacity ever 7. Most time zones covered by host cities (4 different zones) The tournament format changes significantly with 12 groups of 4 teams instead of 8 groups. The top two teams from each group advance to a new Round of 32 knockout stage.

FIFA typically releases the full match schedule in stages: 1. Venue assignments and general dates: Already announced 2. Group stage draw: Expected late 2025 (exact date TBA) 3. Complete match schedule with times: Released after the draw Currently, we know which stadiums will host which phases (group stage, knockouts, final), but specific matchups depend on the draw. Kick-off times will be optimized for global TV audiences, with most US matches in late afternoon/evening local time.

There are several ways to purchase World Cup 2026 tickets: 1. FIFA Official Lottery (Primary Market): • Visit FIFA.com/tickets when sales open (expected early 2025) • Create a FIFA account and apply for tickets • Selection is randomized; you may not get all requested tickets • Payment required only if selected • Best prices but limited availability 2. Authorized Resale Platforms (Secondary Market): • StubHub (Official FIFA Resale Partner) • SeatGeek • Vivid Seats • Guarantee authenticity and buyer protection 3. Hospitality Packages: • Premium experiences through FIFA Hospitality • Higher prices but include extras like food, drinks, and exclusive access

The FIFA ticket lottery is the official process for distributing World Cup tickets fairly: How It Works: 1. Registration Phase: Create a FIFA.com account and verify your identity 2. Application Phase: Submit requests for specific matches (usually max 6-7 tickets per match) 3. Random Selection: FIFA randomly selects successful applicants 4. Payment: Only pay if selected; unsuccessful applicants pay nothing 5. Ticket Delivery: Electronic tickets sent to your FIFA account Important Notes: • Applications don't guarantee tickets • You can apply for multiple matches but may not get all • Payment methods typically include credit/debit cards • Tickets are usually non-transferable and linked to your ID • There may be multiple sales phases for different customer types (general public, team supporters, etc.)

FIFA typically releases tickets in phases: Expected Timeline: • Late 2024/Early 2025: FIFA Hospitality packages • Early 2025: First lottery for general public (2+ years before event) • Mid 2025: Additional sales phases after group draw • Late 2025 - Early 2026: Final sales phases • 2026: Last-minute sales and resale tickets Resale Market: • Tickets on platforms like StubHub become available as original buyers resell • Inventory increases closer to the event as plans change • Prices fluctuate based on demand We recommend signing up for FIFA newsletters and enabling notifications on resale platforms to be alerted when tickets become available.

Ticket limits vary by sales channel: FIFA Official Sales: • Typically 4-7 tickets per match per person • Additional limits may apply for high-demand matches (opening, final) • Must provide ID information for all attendees Resale Platforms: • Usually no strict per-match limits • However, availability is based on what sellers list • Large group orders may need to be split across multiple purchases Hospitality Packages: • Various table/suite sizes available • Group packages can accommodate larger parties Tips for Groups: • Coordinate with group members to maximize chances in lottery • Book early on resale platforms before prices increase • Consider hospitality packages for guaranteed large group seating

Yes, but with some considerations: Before Group Draw: • You can buy tickets for specific venues and dates • Teams aren't assigned to matches until the draw • You're essentially betting on which venue your team will play After Group Draw: • Specific matchups are known • Can purchase for exact team vs. team matches • Prices may increase for popular team matchups Team-Specific Sales: • FIFA often has dedicated sales for national team supporters • Must prove connection to that country (citizenship, fan club membership, etc.) • Better chances of getting tickets for your team's matches Strategy: • If you must see a specific team, wait until after the draw • For flexibility, buy venue-based tickets early at lower prices • Popular teams (Brazil, Argentina, England, etc.) sell out faster

Transferability depends on ticket type: FIFA Official Tickets: • Generally NON-transferable and linked to buyer's identity • Name on ticket must match ID presented at stadium • Limited exceptions for family members (with documentation) • FIFA may allow official resale through their platform Resale Platform Tickets: • StubHub, SeatGeek, etc. facilitate legal transfers • These platforms handle the transfer process securely • Buyer receives valid tickets in their name • Guaranteed by platform buyer protection policies Hospitality Packages: • Often have different transfer rules • May allow guest name changes with advance notice Important: • NEVER buy tickets from unofficial sellers claiming to transfer FIFA tickets • Unofficial transfers can result in invalid tickets and denied entry

Options if you can't attend: FIFA Official Tickets: • FIFA may offer an official resale platform • Check FIFA.com for their resale policies • Some tickets may be refundable (check terms at purchase) • Name changes usually not allowed Resale Platform Purchases: • StubHub: List your tickets for resale on their platform • SeatGeek: Sell through their marketplace • You set your price (within platform guidelines) • Platform takes a fee from the sale Hospitality Packages: • Contact the hospitality provider directly • Some allow name changes or resale • Review terms and conditions carefully Important Notes: • List tickets early for best chance of selling • Price competitively - too high won't sell • Electronic tickets transfer securely through platforms • Never sell tickets outside official channels • Keep records of all transactions

We recommend these verified ticket platforms: 1. StubHub (★★★★★) • Official FIFA Resale Partner • FanProtect Guarantee: 100% valid tickets or money back • Largest inventory of sports tickets globally • Easy mobile ticket delivery • Customer service available in multiple languages 2. SeatGeek (★★★★½) • Buyer Guarantee program • Price comparison across sellers • Interactive seat maps • Mobile app with ticket storage • Deal Score feature shows value ratings 3. Vivid Seats (★★★★) • 100% Buyer Guarantee • Rewards program for repeat buyers • Competitive pricing • Good for last-minute purchases 4. FIFA Official (Primary) • Best prices (face value) • Requires lottery application • No availability guarantee Avoid: Craigslist, Facebook Marketplace, unknown websites, and street sellers.

Yes, StubHub is one of the safest options for World Cup tickets: Why StubHub is Trustworthy: • Official FIFA Resale Partner for World Cup 2026 • FanProtect Guarantee covers every purchase • If tickets are invalid, you get replacement tickets or full refund • In business since 2000 with millions of transactions • BBB accredited with strong ratings • Owned by viagogo (major global ticketing company) How FanProtect Works: • Tickets guaranteed valid for entry • Tickets delivered in time for event • Full refund if event is cancelled and not rescheduled • Customer support available before and during events Tips for Buying on StubHub: • Always use StubHub's official website or app • Never complete transactions outside the platform • Check seller ratings when visible • Save confirmation emails and ticket details

Yes, SeatGeek is a reputable and safe platform: SeatGeek's Safety Features: • Buyer Guarantee: If tickets are invalid, you get replacement or refund • Verified ticket inventory from trusted sellers • Official partner with many major sports leagues • Founded in 2009, based in New York • Processes millions of ticket transactions annually SeatGeek Benefits: • Deal Score: Algorithm rates ticket value 0-100 • Price comparison across multiple sellers • Interactive venue maps showing exact seat views • Mobile tickets stored securely in app • Price drop alerts available How to Buy Safely: • Use official SeatGeek website (seatgeek.com) or app • Look for the Deal Score on listings • Check estimated view from seats • Review total price including fees before purchase

Here's how to verify a ticket website's legitimacy: Red Flags (AVOID): • Prices too good to be true (50%+ below market) • No physical address or contact information • Requests payment via wire transfer, cryptocurrency, or gift cards • No buyer protection or guarantee mentioned • Poor website design, spelling errors, suspicious URL • Pressure tactics ("Only 2 left!" "Price expires in 5 minutes!") • No secure checkout (look for https://) Green Flags (TRUSTWORTHY): • Well-known company with history and reviews • Clear buyer protection/guarantee policy • Accepts credit cards and PayPal • Physical address and customer service contact • SSL certificate (padlock icon in browser) • Listed on Better Business Bureau or equivalent • Clear refund and cancellation policies Verification Steps: 1. Search "[website name] reviews" and read recent feedback 2. Check BBB rating at bbb.org 3. Look for press coverage of the company 4. Verify the URL matches official website (beware of typos)

Essential buyer protections when purchasing World Cup tickets: Must-Have Protections: • Authenticity Guarantee: Promise that tickets are valid for entry • Replacement Policy: Substitute tickets if originals fail • Full Refund Option: Money back if tickets don't arrive or are invalid • Event Cancellation Coverage: Refund if World Cup match is cancelled • Secure Payment: Credit card processing with fraud protection Nice-to-Have Features: • Last-minute delivery guarantee • Customer support hotline during events • Mobile ticket storage and transfer • Delivery tracking • Price protection or best price guarantee How Platforms Compare: • StubHub: FanProtect covers all scenarios, 24/7 support • SeatGeek: Buyer Guarantee with replacement/refund • Vivid Seats: 100% Buyer Guarantee Protect Yourself: • Pay with credit card (not debit, wire, or cash) • Screenshot all confirmations • Read the fine print on refund policies • Save customer service contact information • Understand what happens if event is rescheduled vs. cancelled

Prices vary significantly by match phase, seat category, and purchase timing: FIFA Face Value (Approximate): • Group Stage: $70 - $300 • Round of 32: $100 - $400 • Round of 16: $150 - $500 • Quarter-finals: $200 - $700 • Semi-finals: $350 - $1,000 • Third-place match: $200 - $500 • Final: $500 - $1,500 Resale Market Prices: • Group Stage: $150 - $800+ • Knockout rounds: $400 - $2,500+ • Semi-finals: $1,000 - $5,000+ • Final: $3,000 - $15,000+ Factors Affecting Price: • Teams playing (popular teams = higher prices) • Seat location (lower bowl vs. upper deck) • City and stadium • Time until match • Market demand

FIFA typically offers tickets in three main categories: Category 1 (Premium): • Best seats in the stadium • Lower bowl, center field areas • Closest to the action • Highest prices • Best for photography and atmosphere Category 2 (Standard): • Good quality seats • Lower corners and middle sections • Balanced view and price • Most popular category • Great overall experience Category 3 (Value): • Upper deck and end sections • Most affordable option • Still great atmosphere • Good for fans on a budget • May have obstructed views in some stadiums Accessibility Tickets: • Special pricing and accommodations • Wheelchair-accessible seating • Companion tickets available • Apply through FIFA's accessibility program Hospitality Packages: • Premium seating plus food/drinks • Private lounges and suites • Meet-and-greet opportunities • Prices from $1,000 to $10,000+

Optimal buying times depend on your priorities: For Best Prices: • FIFA lottery: Earliest availability at face value • 6+ months before: Generally lower resale prices • Last minute (24-48 hours): Can find deals from sellers who need to sell For Best Selection: • Immediately after FIFA lottery opens • Right after group draw (specific matchups known) • Early in each sales phase Price Trends to Know: • Prices typically RISE as event approaches • Popular team matches increase most dramatically • Knockout round prices surge after teams advance • Final tickets can 10x in price after semi-finals Strategies: • Buy group stage tickets early for best value • Wait until teams are known for specific matchups • Set price alerts on SeatGeek and StubHub • Have backup matches in case first choice sells out • Consider less popular matchups for significant savings

Resale prices exceed face value for several reasons: Supply and Demand: • World Cup has massive global demand • Stadium capacity is fixed • FIFA lottery doesn't satisfy all demand • Limited supply + high demand = higher prices Resale Market Dynamics: • Sellers price based on market rates • Platform fees (typically 10-25%) added • Risk premium for guaranteed validity • Sellers may have purchased at higher initial prices Specific Price Factors: • Star teams (Brazil, Argentina, England) command premiums • Finals and semi-finals have highest demand • Weekend matches more expensive than midweek • Host country teams attract local premium Ways to Minimize Cost: • Apply for FIFA lottery (face value) • Buy early before prices rise • Consider less popular matchups • Be flexible on seat location • Look for deals on weekday group matches

Understanding fees when buying World Cup tickets: FIFA Official Sales: • Usually transparent pricing • May include delivery/processing fees • No service fees typically • Face value is generally what you pay Resale Platforms (Typical Fees): • StubHub: ~10-15% buyer fee + ~15% seller fee • SeatGeek: ~10-20% service fee • Vivid Seats: ~10-20% service fee • Fees added at checkout (shown in total price) Hidden Costs to Watch: • Currency conversion fees (international buyers) • International delivery charges • Insurance options (often optional) • Paper ticket printing fees • Expedited delivery fees How to See True Costs: • Look for 'All-In Pricing' options (shows total upfront) • SeatGeek has a toggle for 'All-In' prices • StubHub shows fees at checkout • Always review total before confirming purchase Tips to Minimize Fees: • Compare final prices across platforms (not just ticket price) • Some platforms periodically offer reduced fees • Group purchases may qualify for discounts • Sign up for newsletters for fee promotions

Visa requirements depend on your nationality and which country you're visiting: United States: • Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): Citizens of 40 countries can apply online • ESTA cost: $21 USD, valid for 2 years • Other nationalities: Must apply for B1/B2 tourist visa • Start visa process early (6+ months recommended) Mexico: • Many nationalities don't need visa for tourism (up to 180 days) • US, Canada, EU citizens: No visa required • Others: Check with Mexican embassy • Tourism form (FMM) required on arrival Canada: • Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): For visa-exempt nationals • eTA cost: $7 CAD • Tourist visa required for other nationalities Important Tips: • Check requirements for ALL countries you'll visit • Apply early - embassies will be busy before World Cup • Keep proof of return ticket and accommodation • Have proof of match tickets for visa applications • FIFA may issue special visa support letters

Transportation options for traveling between World Cup venues: By Air: • Most practical for long distances (e.g., Miami to Seattle) • Book early for best prices • Consider multi-city flight packages • Major hubs: Dallas, Houston, Atlanta, Los Angeles By Train (US/Canada): • Amtrak connects some East Coast cities • Limited but scenic options • Boston-New York-Philadelphia corridor works well • VIA Rail in Canada (Toronto routes) By Bus: • Budget-friendly option • Companies: Greyhound, FlixBus, Megabus • Good for medium distances • Overnight buses save on hotels By Car: • Rental cars available everywhere • Best for flexibility • Consider one-way rentals • US drives: Vast distances (Dallas to LA = 20+ hours) Between Countries: • US-Mexico border: Fly or drive (Monterrey is close to Texas) • US-Canada border: Easy crossing with proper documentation • Expect increased border security during World Cup

Recommended booking timeline: Flights: • 8-12 months before: Best prices and availability • 6 months before: Still good options • 3 months before: Prices increasing • Last minute: High prices, limited seats Hotels: • 12+ months before: Widest selection, early-bird rates • 6-9 months before: Good availability • 3-6 months before: Prices rising, fewer options • Last minute: Very expensive if available Pro Tips: • Book refundable reservations early, upgrade later if needed • Consider Airbnb for longer stays or groups • Look at nearby cities (cheaper than venue cities) • Join hotel loyalty programs for perks • Sign up for price alerts on Google Flights • Consider all-inclusive packages (flight + hotel) Expect These Price Increases: • Hotels: 100-300% higher than normal during World Cup • Flights: 50-150% higher for peak dates • Popular cities (NYC, LA, Miami) most affected

Various accommodation types for different budgets: Hotels: • Luxury: $300-800+/night (expect World Cup premiums) • Mid-range: $150-300/night • Budget chains: $80-150/night • Book early for reasonable rates Vacation Rentals: • Airbnb, VRBO, Booking.com • Good for groups (split costs) • Kitchen saves on restaurant expenses • May have minimum stay requirements • Verify cancellation policies Hostels: • Available in major US cities • $30-80/night for dorm beds • Great for solo travelers • Social atmosphere to meet other fans Alternative Options: • Stay outside city center and commute • Book in nearby cities with transit access • University dorms (some rent in summer) • Camping (near some suburban venues) Venue-Specific Tips: • New York: Consider New Jersey hotels (closer to stadium) • Los Angeles: Stay near Metro lines • Mexico City: Many hotel options at various prices • Dallas: Hotels in Arlington near AT&T Stadium

Public transit varies significantly by host city: Excellent Transit Options: • New York: NJ Transit train to MetLife Stadium, subway connections • Mexico City: Metro system extensive, buses to Estadio Azteca • Toronto: TTC subway and streetcars, transit to BMO Field • San Francisco: BART and Caltrain to Levi's Stadium area • Boston: MBTA commuter rail to Gillette Stadium Good Transit Options: • Atlanta: MARTA rail connects to Mercedes-Benz Stadium • Los Angeles: Metro expanding, limited rail to SoFi • Vancouver: SkyTrain connects to BC Place area • Philadelphia: SEPTA to Lincoln Financial Field Car-Dependent Venues: • Dallas: AT&T Stadium has limited transit, expect to drive/Uber • Houston: NRG Stadium primarily car access • Kansas City: Limited public transit, parking recommended • Miami: Hard Rock Stadium mainly car access General Tips: • Download local transit apps before arrival • Expect special event schedules on match days • Allow extra time (2+ hours before kickoff) • Follow official FIFA transport guidance • Consider staying near stadium for walking distance • Ride-sharing (Uber/Lyft) available but surge pricing likely • Many stadiums offer park-and-ride options

Protect yourself from ticket fraud with these guidelines: NEVER Do This: • Buy from strangers on social media or Craigslist • Pay via wire transfer, Bitcoin, or gift cards • Purchase from unofficial websites • Buy tickets from people outside stadiums • Trust deals that seem too good to be true • Click links in unsolicited emails about tickets ALWAYS Do This: • Use verified platforms (StubHub, SeatGeek, FIFA) • Pay with credit card (fraud protection) • Keep all purchase confirmations • Verify tickets before paying (when possible) • Check seller reviews and ratings • Report suspicious activity Common Scam Types: • Fake websites mimicking legitimate platforms • Social media sellers with duplicate tickets • Phishing emails claiming to be FIFA • "Friends" selling tickets at too-good prices • Print-at-home tickets that won't scan If Scammed: • Contact your credit card company immediately • Report to FTC (US), local police, and platform • Document all communications

If you have entry issues, here's what to do: At the Stadium: 1. Stay calm and move to guest services 2. Show all documentation (confirmation, receipts, ID) 3. Explain where you purchased tickets 4. Ask for supervisor if initial staff can't help 5. Document everything (names, badge numbers, what was said) For Resale Platform Purchases: • StubHub: Call FanProtect hotline immediately • SeatGeek: Contact Buyer Guarantee support • Both will attempt to get replacement tickets or refund • Have your order number ready Prevention: • Arrive early (2+ hours before kickoff) • Have digital tickets loaded and screenshots saved • Bring printed backup if possible • Keep platform's customer service number handy • Verify tickets work at the venue days before (some allow this) Know Your Rights: • Legitimate platforms must honor their guarantees • Credit card chargebacks available if platform won't help • Document any financial losses for potential claims

Methods to verify ticket authenticity: For Platform Purchases (StubHub, SeatGeek): • Platform guarantees authenticity • Tickets verified before delivery to you • If doubts, contact customer service for confirmation For FIFA Official Tickets: • Tickets linked to your FIFA account • QR code verified at stadium entry • Name must match your ID • Official FIFA tickets have security features General Verification Steps: 1. Check the ticket format matches official examples 2. QR code should scan properly (use generic scanner app) 3. Seat location should exist in the stadium 4. Match and date should be correct 5. Look for security holograms or watermarks Red Flags for Fake Tickets: • Blurry printing or low resolution • Incorrect stadium or team names • Misspellings or grammatical errors • QR code doesn't scan or links to wrong site • Multiple tickets with identical barcodes • Significantly lower price than market rate Best Practice: • Only buy from guaranteed platforms • Never buy physical tickets from strangers • Test mobile tickets before match day

Overall, all three host countries are safe for tourists: United States: • Generally very safe for tourists • Major cities have typical urban precautions • Stadium areas well-policed during events • Strong emergency services • Tips: Stay aware in crowded areas, use Uber/Lyft at night Mexico: • Tourist areas generally safe • Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey host millions safely • Stadium areas heavily secured for matches • Tips: Use registered taxis, stay in tourist zones, follow local advice Canada: • Very safe for tourists • Toronto and Vancouver are modern, welcoming cities • Low crime rates • Excellent public services General Safety Tips: • Register with your country's embassy • Keep copies of important documents • Use hotel safes for valuables • Stay aware of your surroundings • Learn basic local phrases • Have travel insurance with medical coverage • Download maps offline in case of no signal • Know local emergency numbers

Health considerations for World Cup 2026 attendees: Before Traveling: • Check if vaccinations are recommended/required • Get travel health insurance (covers medical emergencies) • Fill prescriptions for any regular medications • Pack a basic first aid kit • Know your blood type and allergies During the World Cup: • Stay hydrated (especially in hot venues like Dallas, Houston, Mexico) • Use sunscreen for outdoor stadium sections • Watch alcohol consumption in heat • Know location of medical facilities near venues • Keep emergency contact info accessible Specific Considerations by Region: USA: • Healthcare is expensive without insurance • Many pharmacies (CVS, Walgreens) open 24/7 • Dial 911 for emergencies Mexico: • Don't drink tap water (use bottled) • Street food is generally safe at busy vendors • Pharmacies sell many medications without prescription • Altitude in Mexico City (7,350 ft) may affect some visitors Canada: • Healthcare excellent but costly for visitors • Similar precautions as USA COVID-19 & Respiratory Illness: • Check current entry requirements closer to event • Consider masks in crowded indoor spaces • Bring hand sanitizer • Stay updated on any FIFA health protocols