United States World Cup 2026 Tickets

The United States prepares to welcome the world’s greatest football tournament for the first time since 1994. As primary host of the expanded 48-team competition, the USA will stage 78 of the tournament’s 104 matches across eleven spectacular cities. From the opening whistle on June 12 through the final at MetLife Stadium on July 19, American venues will showcase month-long football excellence on an unprecedented scale.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to experience the World Cup in America – from securing match tickets and navigating between host cities to understanding visa requirements and exploring each destination’s unique character.

USA World Cup 2026: Tournament Overview

The 2026 World Cup represents a watershed moment for football in North America. Three nations unite to host the competition, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico sharing duties across 16 cities. The USA assumes the leading role, welcoming the majority of matches including both semifinals, the third place playoff, and the tournament-defining final.

This marks the first 48-team World Cup, expanding from the traditional 32-nation format. The enlarged competition introduces new dynamics – more matches, additional venues, and unprecedented opportunities for nations to reach football’s biggest stage. For supporters, this expansion translates to more tickets, more travel options, and more chances to witness World Cup history.

Securing Your USA World Cup Tickets

World Cup tickets remain among sport’s most coveted items. With matches spread across eleven American cities, supporters face numerous options for experiencing the tournament. Here’s how to navigate the ticket purchasing process:

1. Choose your target fixture and click ‘Find Tickets’
2. Pick your preferred seating zone using the stadium diagram
3. Specify the number of tickets you’re purchasing
4. Hit the ‘Get now’ button
5. Complete the order form with your information
6. Double-check all details for accuracy
7. Click ‘Make Payment’
8. Done – tickets secured!

Pricing varies significantly based on match importance, seating location, and venue. Group stage fixtures featuring less prominent nations offer the most affordable entry points, while knockout matches and games involving popular teams command premium prices. Book early – high-profile fixtures sell rapidly, often within hours of release.

United States Host Cities and Stadiums

Eleven American cities will host World Cup matches, each bringing distinct character and world-class facilities to the tournament. The venues span the continent from Atlantic to Pacific, showcasing the diversity of American culture and geography.

City	Stadium	Capacity	Matches	Key Fixtures
Atlanta	Mercedes-Benz Stadium	75,000	8	Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, Semifinal
Boston	Gillette Stadium	65,000	6	Group Stage, Round of 32
Dallas	AT&T Stadium	94,000	9	Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarterfinal
Houston	NRG Stadium	72,000	7	Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16
Kansas City	Arrowhead Stadium	73,000	6	Group Stage, Round of 32
Los Angeles	SoFi Stadium	70,000	8	Group Stage, Round of 32, Round of 16, Semifinal
Miami	Hard Rock Stadium	65,000	7	Group Stage, Round of 32, Quarterfinal, Third Place
New York	MetLife Stadium	82,500	8	Group Stage, Knockouts, Final
Philadelphia	Lincoln Financial Field	69,000	6	Group Stage, Round of 32
San Francisco	Levi’s Stadium	71,000	6	Group Stage, Round of 32
Seattle	Lumen Field	69,000	6	Group Stage, Round of 32

Notable Venues

AT&T Stadium, Dallas – The tournament’s largest venue with 94,000 capacity, hosting nine matches including a quarterfinal. This architectural marvel features a retractable roof and one of the world’s largest high-definition video displays.

SoFi Stadium, Los Angeles – Perhaps the most technologically advanced venue, featuring a suspended double-sided 4K HDR video board, translucent roof supporting drone shows, and cutting-edge fan technology throughout.

MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey – Selected to host the World Cup Final on July 19, 2026. FIFA chose this venue not just for the stadium itself, but for everything the New York metropolitan area offers as a destination.

Fan Festival Locations Across the USA

Can’t secure match tickets? Fan Festivals provide official viewing venues where supporters without stadium access can experience World Cup atmosphere. These public gathering spaces feature giant screens broadcasting live matches, food vendors, entertainment, and activities celebrating football culture.

City	Fan Festival Location	Estimated Capacity
Atlanta	Centennial Olympic Park	20,000-25,000
Boston	Boston City Hall Plaza or Boston Common	10,000-15,000
Dallas	Fair Park	25,000-30,000
Houston	East Downtown Houston	20,000
Kansas City	National WWI Museum and Memorial	15,000-20,000
Los Angeles	Exposition Park or SoFi Stadium area	30,000+
Miami	Bayfront Park	20,000-25,000
New York/New Jersey	Liberty State Park (Jersey City)	30,000+
Philadelphia	Fairmount Park	25,000
San Francisco Bay Area	Downtown San Jose or Moscone Center	15,000-20,000
Seattle	Seattle Center	20,000

Essential Information for Visiting the USA

Visa and Entry Requirements

UK citizens visiting the United States for the World Cup have two primary entry options:

ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) – Most UK passport holders qualify for visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program. Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before travel. ESTA authorization permits stays up to 90 days and typically processes within 72 hours, though applying several weeks before departure is recommended.

B-2 Tourist Visa – Required for travelers not eligible for ESTA or planning stays exceeding 90 days. This involves scheduling an embassy interview and providing additional documentation. Processing times vary, so apply well in advance.

Verify your eligibility and application requirements through the US Department of State well before your intended travel dates.

Currency and Payments

The United States uses the US Dollar (USD). Credit and debit cards are universally accepted throughout the country, with contactless payments standard at most retailers and venues. ATMs are abundant in all host cities if you need cash. Most establishments accept major international cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express).

Time Zones

The USA spans multiple time zones. The eleven host cities operate across three zones:

Eastern Time (ET): Atlanta, Boston, Miami, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia

Central Time (CT): Dallas, Houston, Kansas City

Pacific Time (PT): Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle

When planning match schedules and travel between cities, account for these time differences.

Weather Expectations During the World Cup

The tournament runs from mid-June through mid-July, when weather conditions vary significantly across host cities. Here’s what to expect:

City	Average High	Average Low	Conditions
Atlanta	32-36°C (90-97°F)	21-24°C (70-75°F)	Hot and humid, heat warnings likely
Boston	26-30°C (79-86°F)	17-20°C (63-68°F)	Mild to warm, occasional rain
Dallas	35-40°C (95-104°F)	24-27°C (75-81°F)	Very hot, dry heat, possible heat warnings
Houston	34-38°C (93-100°F)	25-28°C (77-82°F)	Hot and humid
Kansas City	32-36°C (90-97°F)	21-24°C (70-75°F)	Warm with chance of summer storms
Los Angeles	28-32°C (82-90°F)	18-21°C (64-70°F)	Dry and sunny, coastal breeze
Miami	32-35°C (90-95°F)	25-27°C (77-81°F)	Tropical heat, high humidity, storm risk
New York	30-34°C (86-93°F)	20-23°C (68-73°F)	Warm and humid, occasional rain
Philadelphia	30-33°C (86-91°F)	19-22°C (66-72°F)	Warm with moderate humidity
San Francisco	22-26°C (72-79°F)	13-16°C (55-61°F)	Cool mornings, mild afternoons, coastal fog
Seattle	24-28°C (75-82°F)	14-17°C (57-63°F)	Mild and dry, very comfortable

Pack accordingly for your destinations. Southern cities experience extreme heat and humidity, while San Francisco and Seattle remain considerably cooler and more comfortable.

Flying to the United States from the UK

All eleven host cities offer international airport access, though direct flight availability from the UK varies significantly:

Host City	Airport	Direct from UK?	UK Departure Airports	Flight Duration
Atlanta	Hartsfield-Jackson (ATL)	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick	9h 30m
Boston	Logan (BOS)	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester	7h 30m
Dallas	Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick	10h
Houston	George Bush (IAH)	Yes	Heathrow	10h 15m
Kansas City	Kansas City (MCI)	No	Connect via Chicago, Dallas, etc.	12h+ (with layover)
Los Angeles	LAX	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester	11h
Miami	Miami (MIA)	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick	9h 45m
New York	JFK, Newark (EWR)	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick, Manchester, Edinburgh	7h 45m
Philadelphia	Philadelphia (PHL)	Yes	Heathrow	8h 15m
San Francisco	San Francisco (SFO)	Yes	Heathrow, Gatwick	11h
Seattle	Seattle-Tacoma (SEA)	Yes	Heathrow	9h 45m

Travel Between Host Nations

The 2026 World Cup spans three countries, creating opportunities to experience multiple host nations during the tournament. Understanding border crossing requirements and transport options helps maximize your World Cup journey.

Entry Requirements for UK Citizens

Country	Entry Type	Duration	Notes
USA	ESTA (Visa Waiver)	Up to 90 days	Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov
Canada	eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)	Up to 6 months	Apply online at canada.ca/eta
Mexico	No visa required	Up to 180 days	Immigration form may be required on arrival

Transport Options Between Countries

Flying – The fastest and most convenient option for traveling between host nations. Numerous daily flights connect major US cities with Toronto, Vancouver, Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey.

Train – Amtrak provides cross-border service from the US to Canada, though no direct rail connections exist to Mexico. Train travel works well for shorter distances within each country.

Driving – Possible but time-consuming for most routes. Rental cars can cross into Canada but Mexico requires special insurance and documentation. Factor in border crossing times, which can be substantial during peak periods.

Football Culture in the United States

The United States arrives at its second World Cup hosting opportunity with a vastly different football landscape than 1994. While American sports culture traditionally centered on baseball, American football, and basketball, soccer has experienced explosive growth over the past three decades.

Major League Soccer, founded in 1993 as a World Cup legacy, has evolved into a legitimate global league attracting world-class talent. David Beckham’s high-profile arrival in 2007 opened floodgates for international stars. Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Thierry Henry, Steven Gerrard, and most recently Lionel Messi have brought credibility and visibility to American soccer.

The US Men’s National Team qualified for seven consecutive World Cups from 1990-2014, establishing themselves as CONCACAF’s dominant force. While they’ve never claimed the trophy, consistent tournament appearances have built a dedicated supporter base.

The US Women’s National Team towers above all others in World Cup success. Four tournament victories (1991, 1999, 2015, 2019) establish them as the sport’s most decorated team. Their dominance has inspired generations of young American players and significantly raised soccer’s profile domestically.

Under Mauricio Pochettino’s guidance, the USMNT approaches 2026 with cautious optimism. The Argentine manager faces the challenge of settling on a consistent lineup while harnessing home crowd energy. With talented players emerging from top European leagues, the foundation exists for a memorable tournament run.

Frequently Asked Questions

How many World Cup matches will the United States host?

The United States will host 78 of the tournament’s 104 total matches, including both semifinals, the third place playoff, and the final. Canada and Mexico will each host 13 matches.

When does the World Cup begin in the United States?

While the tournament opens in Mexico City on June 11, 2026, matches in the United States begin on June 12 and continue through the final on July 19.

Which stadium will host the World Cup Final?

MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey hosts the final on July 19, 2026. With capacity of 82,500, it ranks among the tournament’s largest venues.

Can I purchase tickets for matches in multiple US cities?

Yes, tickets can be purchased for matches across different cities. Each order must be placed separately as the system doesn’t support shopping carts.

What’s the best city to watch World Cup matches in America?

This depends on personal preferences. New York/New Jersey offers the final and global city appeal. Los Angeles combines entertainment culture with a semifinal. Miami provides tropical atmosphere and passionate fans. Atlanta and Dallas feature modern stadiums with strong local support. Each city delivers unique experiences.

How much do World Cup tickets cost in the USA?

Prices vary widely based on match importance, seating category, and venue. Estimates suggest ranges from $500 for group stage upper-tier seats to $3,000+ for premium knockout match tickets.

When should I arrive at stadiums before matches?

Arrive at least 2-3 hours before kickoff. This allows time for security screening, navigating crowds, and enjoying pre-match atmosphere. High-profile matches may require even earlier arrival.

What items are prohibited at World Cup stadiums?

Standard prohibitions include weapons, alcohol, large bags, professional cameras, offensive banners, and drones. All venues conduct bag checks and metal detection. Specific guidelines will be published closer to the tournament.

Do I need a visa to visit the United States for the World Cup?

UK citizens typically qualify for visa-free entry under the ESTA program, permitting 90-day stays. Apply online at esta.cbp.dhs.gov before travel. Those ineligible for ESTA require B-2 tourist visas.

Can I travel between USA, Canada, and Mexico during the tournament?

Yes. UK citizens can enter all three host nations relatively easily. The US requires ESTA, Canada requires eTA, and Mexico permits visa-free entry. Flying provides the most efficient transport between countries.

What’s the weather like during the World Cup in America?

Weather varies dramatically by location. Southern cities (Dallas, Houston, Miami, Atlanta) experience extreme heat and humidity. Coastal cities (Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle) offer milder conditions. Check specific city forecasts when planning.

Will the US national team automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup?

Yes, as co-host, the United States receives automatic qualification regardless of competitive results.

Are Fan Festivals free to attend?

Yes, Fan Festivals are free public events open to everyone, providing viewing areas for those without stadium tickets.

Book Your USA World Cup Experience Today

The 2026 World Cup in the United States promises to be the biggest tournament in football history. With 78 matches across eleven spectacular cities, countless opportunities exist to witness world-class football while exploring American culture and destinations.

Don’t wait to secure your place at this historic event. Tickets for popular matches and knockout fixtures sell rapidly. Book early to guarantee your seats and begin planning the World Cup adventure of a lifetime.