World Cup 2026 - tickets & travel

The 2026 World Cup features 104 matches in total, compared to 64 at previous 32-team tournaments. The expanded 48-team format means the group stage accounts for 72 fixtures alone, spread across all three host countries. This gives fans more individual matches to choose from than at any previous edition of the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States. It is the first World Cup to be staged across three countries simultaneously. Matches are distributed across cities in all three nations, with the final scheduled at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

Yes, each host country has its own entry requirements. Being permitted to enter the United States, for example, does not automatically mean you can enter Canada or Mexico. If you plan to attend matches in more than one country, check the entry requirements for each separately through the relevant official government or embassy sources well before your travel dates.

A match ticket covers entry to a specific fixture. A travel package typically combines a match ticket with hotel accommodation for the nights around the game, and sometimes includes flights or transfers as well. For fans travelling from outside North America who need to arrange several elements at once, a package can be more straightforward to manage than booking each component separately.

Semi-finals and the final draw the most global interest at every World Cup. In the group stage, fixtures involving nations with large travelling fan bases, such as Brazil, Argentina, England, Germany, France and Mexico, tend to generate strong demand as soon as the draw is confirmed. Knockout-stage matches are harder to plan around in advance since they depend on which teams qualify.

The main thing to confirm is what the provider does if a team you are following does not reach that stage. Policies vary, so reading the booking conditions before you pay is essential. Some providers offer alternative fixtures or other arrangements in this situation, while others have more limited options. This is worth clarifying directly with the provider if it is not clearly stated.

The United States hosts matches across eleven cities: New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco, Seattle, Boston, Miami, Atlanta, Kansas City, Houston and Philadelphia. The final takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, near New York. Each city has its own transport infrastructure, so it is worth looking at the specific venue location and local options for each match you plan to attend.

Flights are the most practical option for most journeys, particularly when crossing between countries. North American distances mean that even cities within the same country can be several hours apart by air. If you are attending matches in more than one host nation, factor in border crossing requirements and check that your travel documents cover each country you are entering.

Mexico City sits at approximately 2,240 metres above sea level. Fans coming from lower altitudes may notice shortness of breath or mild fatigue during the first day or two. Keeping well hydrated and avoiding heavy physical exertion immediately after arrival helps with the adjustment. The city's climate in June is generally mild but can include afternoon rain, so checking the forecast before matchday is practical.

Yes, many fans plan itineraries that cover matches in two or all three host countries. This requires valid documents for each country, flights between cities and careful scheduling, especially if you are targeting matches at different stages of the tournament. Some travel packages available through listed partners cover multi-city or multi-country itineraries, which can reduce the number of separate bookings you need to make.