FIFA Expects Full Stadiums for All 2026 World Cup Matches Despite Available Tickets

Despite some tickets still being available, FIFA President Gianni Infantino anticipates full stadiums for all 104 matches of the 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Speaking to CNBC, Infantino stated, "The demand is there. Every match will be played in front of a full stadium." His comments follow the second phase of ticket sales, which concluded in January.

According to the FIFA president, there were 508 million requests for the approximately seven million available tickets during the four-week period, originating from over 200 countries.

"We have never seen anything like this before. It’s amazing," Infantino said, noting that FIFA has reserved a portion of tickets for a last-minute sales phase, which will run from April until the end of the tournament on July 19.

Addressing concerns about ticket prices, which fan groups have described as "too expensive" and which have reached record levels on resale platforms, Infantino likened the event to "104 Super Bowls in one month." He explained that this scale naturally impacts prices.

Infantino clarified that while ticket prices are set, the presence of dynamic pricing, particularly in the United States, allows prices to fluctuate based on demand and the significance of the match.

He also mentioned the option for fans to resell their tickets through official platforms, acknowledging that prices may increase again in the secondary market, which he considers "part of the market."

Looking ahead to the expanded 48-team World Cup, Infantino projected FIFA revenues of $11 billion "or maybe a little more." He emphasized that "every dollar is reinvested in football in the 211" member associations of FIFA.