The final stage of the first ticketing window for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially closed.
The Random Selection Draw, the third phase of the application process, ran from December 11, 2025 to January 13, 2026. Fans who missed earlier sales now wait to learn whether their requests were successful.
At a Glance
- The Random Selection Draw closed at 11 a.m. ET on January 13, 2026
- Results will be emailed no earlier than February 5, 2026
- Automatic payment for successful requests begins February 9, 2026
- A Last-Minute Sales Phase and resale marketplace will follow
- Why it matters: Applicants need to monitor two official email addresses and their FIFA account to confirm ticket status and avoid missed payments
What Is the Random Selection Draw?
The Random Selection Draw is the third and final phase of the initial 2026 World Cup ticket application process. After fans submit requests, entries are placed into a random lottery. FIFA then determines which requests can be fulfilled completely, partially, or not at all.
Submitting an application does not guarantee tickets. Demand routinely exceeds supply for World Cup matches, making the draw the fairest method to allocate seats.
Timeline for Applicants
- Application window: December 11, 2025 – January 13, 2026
- Draw completion: January 13, 2026 at 11 a.m. ET / 8 a.m. PT
- Results released: No earlier than February 5, 2026
- Payment processing: Begins February 9, 2026
Applicants should watch for emails from [email protected] and [email protected]. Messages will state whether the request was successful and, if so, the total cost. Fans can also log in to their FIFA ticketing account at any time to check status.
Automatic charging will occur for successful or partially successful applications starting February 9. Ensure the payment method on file is valid to avoid losing allocated tickets.
Still Need Tickets?
Additional inventory will become available through two channels:
- Last-Minute Sales Phase – A first-come, first-served sale closer to the tournament date
- FIFA Resale/Exchange Marketplace – Fans may list unwanted tickets; availability is not guaranteed
Hospitality packages remain an option at FIFA.com/hospitality. These bundles include premium seats plus food, beverage, and lounge access.
Tournament Schedule and Prize Money
The 2026 World Cup kicks off Thursday, June 11. Matches will be held across 16 cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA has allocated prize money as follows:
| Placement | Prize (USD) |
|---|---|
| Champion | TBD |
| Runner-up | $33 million |
| Third place | $29 million |
| Fourth place | $27 million |
Exact figures for the winning team have not been released.
Key Takeaways
- Check email and your FIFA account after February 5, 2026
- Ensure payment details are current before February 9, 2026
- Missed the draw? Monitor FIFA.com for Last-Minute Sales and the resale marketplace
- Hospitality packages are still available for those seeking guaranteed premium access
News Of Philadelphia first reported the close of the Random Selection Draw.
