500M Fans Request World Cup Tickets Across 3 Nations

Soccer fans around the world just showed exactly how much they love the beautiful game.

An unprecedented 500 million people requested tickets for the 2026 World Cup, which will be played across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Only 6 million tickets exist for all 104 matches, meaning demand outstripped supply by more than 80 to 1.

Jurgen Mainka, director of the FIFA Office in Mexico, couldn't hide his amazement. "I haven't seen this in any other event, product, service or industry," he said.

The tournament kicks off June 11 at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca with Mexico facing South Africa. That opening match ranked among the five most requested games globally, alongside the July 19 final in New Jersey and a Portugal-Colombia showdown in Miami.

Between December 11 and January 13, ticket requests poured in at a rate of 15 million per day. Mexico will host 13 matches total across Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey during the five-week tournament.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino thanked fans worldwide for their "extraordinary response." The organization is now working with Mexico's Federal Consumer Protection Agency to build a digital platform that ensures transparent sales and limits scalping in the secondary market.

Why This Inspires

This historic demand shows how sports can unite people across borders and backgrounds. While only a fraction of hopeful fans will get tickets, the overwhelming interest proves that millions around the world are ready to celebrate together, cheering for the teams and players they love.

Mexico's President Claudia Sheinbaum received the ceremonial first ticket five months ago and immediately announced her plans to give it "to a young girl who likes soccer and wouldn't otherwise have an opportunity" to attend the opening game.

FIFA and Mexico's consumer protection agency will finalize ticket allocations in February, turning half a billion dreams into 6 million reality checks and countless watch parties.