The FIFA World Cup 2026 is coming to the United States and gives soccer fans a rare opportunity to experience the world’s biggest tournament in person. Arlington, Texas is one of 16 host cities across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, and is set to host the most matches with nine total, including a semifinal.
While the tournament officially begins on June 11, AT&T Stadium will host its first group stage match on June 14.With games happening nearby, many students are wondering if attending a World Cup match is actually possible.
Tickets first went on sale during the initial phase in September, through a lottery system that randomly selected applicants. For fans who missed that chance, FIFA held a “last-minute sales phase” on April 1, where tickets were sold on a first-come, first-served basis. While this increased the opportunity for fans to secure seats, demand still far exceeded supply.
Even for those who managed to get tickets, cost was a major factor. Early group stage matches were priced around $100, while later-round matches, especially the semifinals at AT&T Stadium, cost several hundred dollars or more.
Even for fans who couldn’t get tickets, the World Cup will still make a big impact in Arlington. With the city hosting more matches than any other, fan festivals, watch parties, and other events around Dallas-Fort Worth will give the community a chance to experience the excitement firsthand.
Whether you’re inside AT&T Stadium or cheering at a local watch party, the 2026 World Cup is sure to be an unforgettable experience.