England supporters have received a significant boost ahead of the 2026 World Cup, with FIFA confirming thousands of affordable, 'ring-fenced' tickets will be reserved for genuine fans.
Fixed Prices for England's Travelling Support
Football's world governing body has moved to assure fans that they will be catered for, despite a steep rise in general admission prices across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For every match England plays, eight per cent of the ticket allocation will be reserved for supporters and sold at a fixed price.
These tickets will be distributed via the Football Association's England Supporters’ Travel Club. Prices for the group stage will start from just £45, a stark contrast to some general sale tickets, with the USA's opening fixture priced at around £400 and the cheapest final ticket costing £1,500.
Sales Window and FIFA's Defence of Pricing Model
The ring-fenced tickets for England and all other qualified nations will go on sale from December 11 until January 13. This allocation covers all potential matches, from the group stage through to the final on Sunday, July 19, 2026.
FIFA has faced criticism for its 'adaptive pricing' model for the 2026 tournament but insists its approach is distinct from controversial 'dynamic pricing'. A FIFA statement explained: "FIFA can confirm ring-fenced allocations that are set aside for specific fan categories... These allocations will be set at a fixed price."
The body also highlighted that, as a not-for-profit organisation, revenue is reinvested, with over 90% of its 2023-2026 budget going back into global football development.
Tackling the Secondary Market and Friday's Draw
With secondary ticket sales legal and a multi-billion dollar business in the US and Canada, FIFA cannot cap resale prices. However, it has launched its own official resale platform to discourage fans from using tout sites. A 15% levy is charged on sales through this channel, with profits directed back into football.
The news comes as England prepares to discover their group stage opponents. The World Cup draw takes place this Friday in Washington, with the full match schedule and venues announced 24 hours later.
FIFA stated that over six million tickets will be sold for the expanded tournament, with two million already purchased. Sales through their resale site have so far been described as "minimal."
