The Random Selection Draw for 2026 FIFA World Cup tickets has closed, marking the final phase of the initial application period. Fans now await results while FIFA prepares for last-minute sales.
At a Glance
- Random Selection Draw ended January 13, 2026
- Results emails begin February 5, 2026
- Automatic payments start February 9, 2026
- Why it matters: Millions of fans applied for coveted seats at the first 48-team World Cup
What Just Happened
The Random Selection Draw ran from December 11, 2025 to January 13, 2026. It followed two earlier phases: the Visa Presale Draw and the Early Ticket Draw. During this window, supporters submitted applications for matches without guaranteed allocation.
Applications entered a lottery system. FIFA then randomly selected which requests would be fulfilled, partially fulfilled, or declined. No applicant received preferential treatment based on submission timing within the phase.
Timeline for Applicants
FIFA will send result notifications via email no earlier than Thursday, February 5, 2026. Watch for messages from:
- no-reply.fwc26@tickets.fifa.org
- noreply@mail.tickets.fifa.com
Applicants can also log into their FIFA ticketing account to check status at any time after results release.
Successful or partially successful applications trigger automatic payment processing beginning Sunday, February 9, 2026. Ensure payment methods on file are valid to avoid losing allocated tickets.
Still Need Tickets?
Additional opportunities remain:
Last-Minute Sales Phase
- Opens closer to tournament start
- First-come, first-served basis
- Limited inventory from returned or unsold allocations
FIFA Resale/Exchange Marketplace
- Available at FIFA.com/tickets
- Fans list unwanted tickets
- Availability not guaranteed
Hospitality Packages
- Ticket-inclusive options
- Viewable at FIFA.com/hospitality
- Premium pricing tier
Tournament Details
The 2026 World Cup kicks off Thursday, June 11, 2026 across 16 North American cities. The expanded format features 48 teams competing for a record prize pool.
Prize money allocations:
| Place | Prize |
|---|---|
| Second | $33 million |
| Third | $29 million |
| Fourth | $27 million |
The champion’s prize will be announced closer to the tournament. This edition marks the first time three nations – United States, Canada, and Mexico – co-host the event.
Derrick M. Collins reported these details for News Of Fort Worth as anticipation builds for the largest World Cup in history.
