### Record-Breaking Demand for 2026 FIFA World Cup Tickets The FIFA World Cup 2026 has set a new record with over **500 million ticket requests** received during a 33-day application window. This unprecedented demand highlights the global enthusiasm for the tournament, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and will feature an expanded format with **48 teams** participating. Notably, the highest number of applications came from countries such as Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina, and Colombia, indicating a widespread interest beyond the host nations [https://www.rediff.com/sports/report/record-500-million-ticket-demand-for-2026-wc/20260115.htm][https://www.channelnewsasia.com/sport/fifa-receives-record-500-million-ticket-requests-2026-world-cup-5860101]. ### Structure of the Ticket Demand Overview 1. **Record Ticket Requests** - FIFA received over **500 million requests** for tickets, marking a historic milestone in sports [https://www.devdiscourse.com/article/sports-games/3770078-fifa-world-cup-ticket-frenzy-over-500-million-requests-received]. 2. **Global Participation** - Applications came from **211 countries**, showcasing the worldwide appeal of the World Cup [https://www.dhakatribune.com/sport/football/401051/fifa-over-500-million-from-211-countries-request]. 3. **High Demand Matches** - The most requested match is Colombia vs. Portugal, followed by Mexico vs. South Korea and the World Cup final [https://www.businesstimes.com.sg/lifestyle/fifa-receives-record-500-million-ticket-requests-2026-world-cup]. 4. **Ticket Pricing Controversy** - Despite the overwhelming demand, FIFA has faced criticism over high ticket prices, prompting the introduction of a **Supporter Entry Tier** priced at **$60** [https://apnews.com/article/fifa-2026-world-cup-tickets-2047bf2d46cd4de549b7b6d853fbb770]. ### Supporting Evidence and Data - **Total Ticket Requests**: Over **500 million** requests received [https://www.livemint.com/sports/football-news/world-cup-2026-fifa-gets-500-million-ticket-requests-most-applications-came-from-11768457680348.html]. - **Countries with Highest Applications**: - Germany - England - Brazil - Spain - Portugal - Argentina - Colombia [https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/sport/584125/football-fifa-receives-record-500-million-ticket-requests-for-2026-world-cup]. - **Most Requested Matches**: - Colombia vs. Portugal (June 27) - Mexico vs. South Korea (June 18) - World Cup Final (July 19) [https://www.theglobeandmail.com/sports/soccer/article-fifa-says-it-has-received-over-500-million-ticket-requests-for-2026]. ### Conclusion and Key Takeaways The **record demand for tickets** to the 2026 FIFA World Cup underscores the event's significance in the global sports landscape. 1. **Historic Demand**: Over **500 million ticket requests** reflect the immense popularity of football worldwide. 2. **Global Engagement**: Fans from **211 countries** have shown interest, with notable applications from major football nations. 3. **Controversial Pricing**: High ticket prices have led to criticism, prompting FIFA to introduce more affordable options for fans. 4. **Exciting Matches**: The tournament promises thrilling encounters, with specific matches generating significant interest. This combination of factors illustrates not only the excitement surrounding the World Cup but also the challenges FIFA faces in balancing demand with accessibility [https://www.anews.com.tr/sport/2026/01/15/fifa-says-over-500-million-requests-for-2026-world-cup-tickets].