The North American World Cup Beckons: Your First Shot at History-Making Tickets!

Well, here we are, isn't it? After what feels like an absolute age — honestly, the planning for a World Cup takes on mythical proportions — FIFA has finally, finally, opened the gates, just a crack, for the second phase of ticket sales for the monumental 2026 World Cup. And you know what? This time, the spotlight, at least for a precious few days, is squarely on North America.

Yes, for once, the residents of the host nations — that's the United States, Canada, and Mexico — are getting a very special, dare I say, exclusive opportunity. From May 23rd right through to May 31st, 2024, a limited window has been carved out, offering these fans a first real shot at securing their spots. It’s not exactly tickets in hand just yet, but rather the chance to reserve a slot to purchase them, which, in the grand scheme of things, feels pretty close to gold for a die-hard supporter.

Now, how does one actually get in on this, you ask? Well, it’s not just a free-for-all. Remember those hopeful souls who, way back in 2021 and 2022, took the time to register their interest for tickets? Or perhaps you signed up for those ever-so-useful "ticket alerts" between 2021 and 2023? If so, congratulations: you’re likely among the chosen few. FIFA is actively reaching out to these early birds, sending them a unique, personal code that unlocks access to this much-coveted pre-sale.

And a quick, but vital, word of caution: if you didn’t get an official communication, please, please be careful. The world of major sporting events, unfortunately, is rife with unauthorized sellers. FIFA is clear on this — only purchase through official channels. You wouldn't want to miss out on what promises to be a truly historic event, let alone fall victim to a scam, would you?

Because let’s be real, the 2026 World Cup is going to be unlike any other. It’s set to be the biggest iteration ever staged, a sprawling spectacle featuring a whopping 48 teams (a significant jump, mind you) and an astonishing 104 games. These matches, for what it’s worth, will be spread across 16 vibrant cities — 11 nestled in the US, three south of the border in Mexico, and two up north in Canada. Imagine the logistics! Imagine the excitement!

This early access, you could say, mirrors a similar approach taken for the 2022 Qatar tournament, offering a little bit of priority to those who’ve shown early commitment. For everyone else, those who might have missed the initial registration — don't despair just yet. The general public ticket sales are tentatively slated to kick off sometime in 2025. It’s a bit of a wait, I know, but for an event of this magnitude, patience truly is a virtue. So, if you’re dreaming of seeing the world’s best square off on North American soil, this is your first big chance. Don't let it slip by.