Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about FIFA World Cup 2030 tickets
General Tournament Information
When is the FIFA World Cup 2030?
The FIFA World Cup 2030 is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2030. This marks the 100th anniversary of the first FIFA World Cup, which was held in Uruguay in 1930. The tournament will run for approximately 40 days across three continents, making it one of the most unique World Cup events in history.
Which countries are hosting the FIFA World Cup 2030?
The 2030 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by three countries: Portugal, Spain, and Morocco. This is the first time in World Cup history that the tournament will be held across three nations spanning two continents (Europe and Africa).
Additionally, as a centenary celebration, three opening matches will be held in South America: Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay will each host one commemorative match to honor the tournament's 100th anniversary.
How many stadiums will host matches?
The tournament will utilize approximately 20 stadiums across the three main host nations:
- Portugal: 3 stadiums including Estádio da Luz (Lisbon) and Estádio do Dragão (Porto)
- Spain: 11 stadiums including Santiago Bernabéu (Madrid), Camp Nou (Barcelona), and others in Seville, Bilbao, and more
- Morocco: 6 stadiums including the Grand Stade de Casablanca and venues in Rabat, Marrakech, and Fez
The three centenary matches in South America will be held in historic stadiums in Montevideo, Buenos Aires, and Asunción.
What is the match schedule format?
The FIFA World Cup 2030 will follow the expanded 48-team format introduced in 2026. The tournament structure includes:
- Group Stage: 16 groups of 3 teams each
- Round of 32: Top 2 teams from each group advance
- Knockout Rounds: Round of 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and Final
- Total Matches: 104 matches over 40 days
Matches will be distributed across all host nations, with the final likely to be held in one of the major stadiums in Spain or Morocco.
What are the climate considerations for visitors?
The June-July timing means visitors should prepare for:
- Portugal: Warm Mediterranean summer (25-35°C / 77-95°F), dry and sunny
- Spain: Hot summer temperatures (28-40°C / 82-104°F), especially in southern cities like Seville
- Morocco: Very hot, especially inland (35-45°C / 95-113°F), with coastal cities slightly cooler
Visitors should bring sun protection, lightweight clothing, and stay hydrated. Matches may be scheduled in the evening to avoid peak heat.
How many teams will participate?
The FIFA World Cup 2030 will feature 48 teams, continuing the expanded format introduced in the 2026 tournament. This represents an increase from the 32-team format used from 1998-2022. The 48 teams will compete across 104 matches over the tournament's 40-day duration.
What cities will host matches?
Host cities across the three nations include:
- Portugal: Lisbon, Porto, Braga
- Spain: Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Bilbao, San Sebastián, La Coruña, Valencia, Málaga, Zaragoza, Las Palmas, Gijón
- Morocco: Casablanca, Rabat, Marrakech, Fez, Tangier, Agadir
Each city offers unique cultural experiences, making this tournament a celebration of diverse Mediterranean and North African heritage.
Is this a special World Cup celebration?
Yes! The 2030 FIFA World Cup is extraordinarily special as it celebrates the 100th anniversary (centenary) of the first FIFA World Cup held in Uruguay in 1930. To honor this milestone:
- Three opening matches will be held in South America (Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay)
- It will be the first World Cup hosted across three continents
- It marks Portugal's first time hosting the World Cup
- Morocco will become the second African nation to host (after South Africa 2010)
This makes it a once-in-a-century celebration of football's greatest tournament.
Ticket Sales & Purchase
When do FIFA World Cup 2030 tickets go on sale?
FIFA typically announces ticket sales approximately 12-18 months before the tournament. Based on previous World Cups, we can expect:
- First Sales Phase (Lottery): Late 2028 or early 2029
- Second Sales Phase (First-Come-First-Served): Mid-2029
- Last-Minute Sales Phase: Spring 2030, weeks before the tournament
Important: Official dates have not been announced yet. Subscribe to our email alerts to be notified the moment FIFA releases ticket information. Never buy "pre-sale" tickets from unauthorized sellers – these are scams.
How does the FIFA ticket lottery system work?
The FIFA ticket lottery (also called the "random selection draw") is the primary method for distributing tickets:
- Application Period: Fans apply for tickets on FIFA's official website during a specific window (usually 3-4 weeks)
- Selection Process: After the application period closes, FIFA conducts a random draw to select successful applicants
- Notification: Successful applicants are notified via email and must pay within a specified deadline
- Multiple Applications: You can apply for tickets to multiple matches, but selection is not guaranteed
Tip: Applying for less popular matches (group stage, non-contender nations) increases your chances of selection in the lottery.
What are ticket price categories (Category 1, 2, 3, 4)?
FIFA divides stadium seating into four price categories based on viewing quality:
- Category 1: Premium seating with the best views (center sections, halfway line). Highest price. Expected: €300-€1,100 depending on match
- Category 2: Excellent seating with great views (near center, slight angles). Mid-high price. Expected: €150-€600
- Category 3: Good seating with standard views (corners, ends). Mid price. Expected: €75-€350
- Category 4: Economy seating with distant views (high corners, behind goals). Lowest price. Expected: €40-€180
Note: Prices vary significantly by match importance. Final tickets are much more expensive than group stage matches. Actual prices will be announced by FIFA closer to the tournament.
Additionally, accessible seating for disabled fans is available across all categories at reduced rates.
Can I buy tickets from third-party sellers or resellers?
NO. This is critical to understand:
The ONLY legitimate way to purchase FIFA World Cup tickets is through:
- FIFA's official ticketing website (FIFA.com/tickets)
- Authorized National Football Associations for your country
- FIFA's official hospitality partners (for hospitality packages)
Third-party sellers, ticket brokers, and resale websites are NOT authorized and are almost always scams. Tickets purchased through unauthorized channels:
- Will be invalid and denied entry at stadiums
- Cannot be verified as authentic
- Violate FIFA's terms and conditions
- Often result in financial loss with no recourse
If you can no longer attend, FIFA typically operates an official resale platform where you can sell your tickets back at face value to other fans.
What payment methods does FIFA accept for tickets?
FIFA typically accepts the following payment methods for World Cup tickets:
- Visa and Mastercard (credit and debit cards)
- Sometimes American Express (varies by tournament)
- Payments are processed in USD ($) or EUR (€)
FIFA does NOT accept:
- Wire transfers or bank deposits (major red flag for scams)
- Cryptocurrency or Bitcoin
- PayPal or other third-party payment processors
- Cash payments
- Gift cards or vouchers
Warning: If anyone asks you to pay via wire transfer, Western Union, MoneyGram, cryptocurrency, or gift cards for "FIFA World Cup tickets," it is 100% a scam.
What is FIFA's ticket refund and cancellation policy?
FIFA's refund policy varies by sales phase and circumstances:
- Before Payment Deadline: You can withdraw your application and not pay (no penalty)
- After Payment: Generally non-refundable unless the match is canceled or rescheduled
- Official Resale Platform: If you cannot attend, you can sell your tickets at face value through FIFA's official resale platform (typically opens several months before the tournament)
- Force Majeure: In cases of extraordinary circumstances (like COVID-19), FIFA may offer special refund provisions
Important: Only tickets purchased through official FIFA channels are eligible for any refunds or resale. Third-party tickets have no protection.
Can I buy group tickets vs. individual tickets?
Yes, FIFA offers both options:
- Individual Tickets: Purchase tickets for yourself (1 ticket per match). Most common option.
- Group Tickets: Purchase multiple tickets together (usually 2-10 tickets) for friends/family. Seats are typically together.
- Accessibility Tickets: Available for disabled fans and their companions, bookable together
Group Application Benefits:
- Guaranteed adjacent or nearby seating
- Single payment transaction
- Shared lottery fate (all tickets granted or all denied, never split)
Note: Maximum group sizes and specific rules will be announced by FIFA during the ticket sales launch.
Can I transfer my tickets to someone else?
FIFA has strict ticket transfer policies:
- Name Changes: Limited name changes may be permitted before a certain deadline (usually several months before the tournament)
- Official Resale Platform: The safest way to transfer tickets is through FIFA's official resale platform, where you sell at face value and the new buyer's name is registered
- No Private Transfers: You cannot privately transfer tickets outside FIFA's system
Entry Requirements: The name on the ticket must match the attendee's ID at the stadium gate. Mismatched names may result in denied entry.
Important: Never accept tickets where the seller's name is on them unless transferred through FIFA's official system. These may be invalid or fraud.
What accessible seating options are available for disabled fans?
FIFA is committed to making the World Cup accessible to all fans:
- Wheelchair-Accessible Seating: Available in all stadiums with companion seating
- Easy Access Seating: For fans with limited mobility who don't use wheelchairs
- Reduced Pricing: Accessible tickets are typically offered at Category 4 pricing regardless of location
- Companion Tickets: One free companion ticket per accessible ticket purchased
Booking Process: Accessible seating is bookable through FIFA's official ticketing system during all sales phases. Documentation may be required to verify accessibility needs.
Stadium Facilities: All host stadiums will feature accessible restrooms, elevators, ramps, and designated viewing areas.
How will I receive my tickets (digital or physical)?
Based on recent World Cups, FIFA typically offers:
- Digital Tickets (Mobile App): Most common delivery method. Tickets are loaded into FIFA's official mobile app and displayed as QR codes for stadium entry. Recommended for convenience and security.
- Print-at-Home: PDF tickets you can print yourself (less common in recent tournaments)
- Physical Tickets: May be available for collection at official FIFA Ticket Centers in host cities
Timing: Tickets are typically released 2-4 weeks before the tournament starts. You'll receive notifications via email when tickets are ready to download.
Important: Do not share screenshots or photos of your ticket QR codes publicly, as they can be stolen and used by someone else.
What is the ticket purchasing deadline?
Ticket deadlines vary by sales phase:
- Lottery Phase: Application window typically 3-4 weeks. Payment deadline usually 7-10 days after notification.
- First-Come-First-Served Phase: No application deadline – tickets available until sold out
- Last-Minute Sales: Available up until days before each match (while supplies last)
Payment Deadlines: If selected in the lottery, you must pay within the deadline (usually 7-10 days) or your tickets will be released to others. Missing payment deadlines means losing your tickets.
Tip: Set calendar reminders for both application deadlines and payment deadlines to avoid missing out.
Do I need a Fan ID to buy tickets?
While exact requirements for 2030 haven't been announced, recent World Cups have required a Fan ID (also called FAN ID or Hayya Card):
- What it is: An official identification document required for ticket purchasers
- How to get it: Free online application through FIFA's official website after purchasing tickets
- Requirements: Passport information, photo, ticket confirmation number
- Benefits: Serves as entry permit, public transport access, and ID verification at stadiums
Process: Typically, you first apply for tickets through FIFA. If successful, you then apply for your Fan ID. Both are required for stadium entry.
Note: Specific Fan ID requirements for 2030 will be announced by FIFA closer to the tournament.
Can children attend? Do they need tickets?
Yes, children are welcome at FIFA World Cup matches:
- Age Limit: No minimum age restriction
- Tickets Required: All children, regardless of age (including infants), require their own ticket and seat
- Pricing: Children typically pay the same price as adults (no discounts based on age alone)
- Supervision: Children must be accompanied by an adult guardian
Safety Considerations:
- Stadiums can be loud and crowded
- Matches may run late into the evening
- Summer heat in host countries can be intense
- Bring ear protection for young children
Fan ID for Children: Each child will need their own Fan ID linked to their ticket, requiring passport information.
Travel & Accommodation
Do I need a visa to visit Portugal, Spain, or Morocco?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and which host country you're visiting:
Portugal & Spain (Schengen Zone):
- EU/EEA/Swiss Citizens: No visa required
- US, Canada, Australia, UK, Japan (and 60+ others): No visa for stays up to 90 days
- Other nationalities: May require Schengen visa – check with Portuguese or Spanish embassy
Morocco:
- Many nationalities (including US, Canada, EU, UK, Australia): No visa for stays up to 90 days
- Other nationalities: May require visa – check with Moroccan embassy
Important: If attending matches in both Europe and Morocco, you may need to meet entry requirements for both Schengen and Morocco. FIFA may also provide special entry provisions for ticket holders – details to be announced.
Tip: Check visa requirements at least 3-6 months before travel to allow processing time.
What are the best cities to stay in during the tournament?
Best cities depend on which matches you're attending:
Portugal:
- Lisbon: Capital city, major transport hub, Estádio da Luz. Good base for Portugal matches.
- Porto: Second-largest city, beautiful riverside setting, Estádio do Dragão.
Spain:
- Madrid: Central location, Santiago Bernabéu, excellent transport connections to other Spanish cities
- Barcelona: Coastal city, Camp Nou, major tourist destination
- Seville: Southern Spain, rich culture, good access to Morocco via ferry/flight
Morocco:
- Casablanca: Largest city, Grand Stade, economic hub, good hotels
- Rabat: Capital, more relaxed atmosphere
- Marrakech: Tourist-friendly, cultural attractions
Multi-Country Strategy: Consider staying in Madrid or Barcelona as a base for Spain/Portugal matches, then relocating to Morocco for matches there. High-speed trains connect Spanish and Portuguese cities efficiently.
How do I travel between host cities?
Transport options between host nations and cities:
Within Spain:
- High-Speed Rail (AVE): Fast trains connect Madrid, Barcelona, Seville, Valencia (2-3 hours between major cities)
- Domestic Flights: Quick flights between distant cities (Madrid-Barcelona 1h15m)
- Buses: Budget option (slower but cheaper)
Spain ↔ Portugal:
- Flights: Madrid-Lisbon (1h15m), Barcelona-Porto (1h40m)
- Trains: Lisbon-Madrid (10 hours overnight train available)
- Buses: Budget option (8-12 hours depending on route)
Spain/Portugal ↔ Morocco:
- Flights: Madrid-Casablanca (1h30m), Lisbon-Rabat (2h), Barcelona-Marrakech (2h30m)
- Ferry: Tarifa (Spain) to Tangier (Morocco) – 1 hour ferry crossing, then overland to other Moroccan cities
Within Morocco:
- Trains: Modern rail network connects Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier, Marrakech
- Domestic Flights: Quick connections between major cities
FIFA Fan Transport: FIFA may organize special fan transportation between match venues – details announced closer to the tournament.
What is a Fan ID and do I need one?
The Fan ID (exact name TBD for 2030) is an official credential for World Cup ticket holders:
What it provides:
- Entry Requirement: Mandatory for stadium entry (along with your ticket)
- Identification: Official photo ID for match days
- Possible Benefits: Free public transport on match days, visa-free entry facilitation (if applicable), access to fan zones
How to get it:
- Purchase tickets through FIFA's official website
- Apply online for Fan ID (typically opens several months before tournament)
- Upload passport-style photo and personal information
- Receive digital Fan ID via mobile app or collect physical card at designated centers
Cost: Typically free for ticket holders
Note: Exact requirements and benefits for the 2030 Fan ID will be announced by FIFA. Based on recent World Cups, it will likely be mandatory for all ticket holders regardless of age.
When should I book my accommodation?
Recommended Timeline:
- As soon as you secure tickets: Accommodation in host cities will book up quickly, especially near stadiums
- Ideal timing: 6-9 months before the tournament (late 2029 - early 2030)
- Latest: 3-4 months before (prices will be significantly higher and availability limited)
Booking Strategy:
- Flexible Cancellation: Book accommodations with free cancellation in case your ticket lottery results don't work out
- Location: Near metro/train stations for easy stadium access
- Duration: Book extra nights if attending multiple matches in different cities
Types of Accommodation:
- Hotels: Most convenient but expensive during the tournament
- Airbnb/Vacation Rentals: Good for groups and longer stays
- Hostels: Budget option for solo travelers
- Official Fan Camps: FIFA may organize budget camping options near host cities
Warning: Beware of accommodation scams. Book through reputable platforms (Booking.com, Hotels.com, Airbnb) and verify property legitimacy before paying deposits.
Are there official travel packages?
Yes, FIFA typically offers official hospitality and travel packages:
FIFA Hospitality Packages:
- Premium tickets bundled with hotel, food, and exclusive experiences
- Significantly more expensive than standard tickets (€2,000-€10,000+ per person)
- Available through FIFA's official hospitality partners
- Benefits: Guaranteed tickets, VIP amenities, meet-and-greet opportunities
Authorized Tour Operators:
- FIFA authorizes specific tour operators in each country to sell packages
- Include tickets, accommodation, and sometimes flights
- Mid-range to premium pricing
- More affordable than hospitality but more expensive than booking separately
Important:
- Only book packages from FIFA-authorized partners
- Unauthorized tour operators selling "guaranteed tickets" are scams
- Official partners will be listed on FIFA.com closer to the tournament
DIY vs. Package: Booking tickets, flights, and hotels separately is usually cheaper, but packages offer convenience and reduce planning stress.
What languages are spoken in the host countries?
Portugal:
- Official: Portuguese
- Widely Spoken: English (especially in Lisbon, Porto, tourist areas)
- Useful: Spanish is understood by many Portuguese
Spain:
- Official: Spanish (Castilian)
- Regional Languages: Catalan (Barcelona), Basque (Bilbao), Galician (La Coruña)
- Widely Spoken: English (in major cities and tourist areas)
Morocco:
- Official: Arabic (Moroccan dialect) and Tamazight (Berber)
- Widely Spoken: French (legacy of colonial history, very common in business and tourism)
- Growing: English (especially in tourist areas and among younger generations)
- Spanish: Common in northern Morocco near Spain
For Tourists: English will generally be sufficient in tourist areas, hotels, and stadiums. Learning basic greetings in each country's language is appreciated and helpful.
Safety & Scam Prevention
How can I identify FIFA World Cup ticket scams?
Common Scam Warning Signs:
- "Guaranteed tickets" before official sales start – Tickets aren't available until FIFA releases them
- Sellers on social media, Craigslist, or unauthorized websites – These are almost always fake
- Prices "too good to be true" – Final tickets for $100? Scam
- Requests for wire transfer, Western Union, cryptocurrency, gift cards – Legitimate sellers never ask for these
- Pressure tactics – "Buy now or miss out!", "Limited time offer!" – Scammers create false urgency
- No physical address or contact information – Legitimate sellers have verifiable business details
- Spelling errors, poor grammar in communications – Often indicates fraud
- Fake urgency emails claiming your "FIFA account" needs verification – Phishing attempts
How Scams Work:
- Scammer posts fake tickets on social media or third-party site
- Victim pays via untraceable method (wire transfer, crypto)
- Scammer sends fake ticket PDF or disappears entirely
- Victim arrives at stadium and is denied entry
- No recourse for refund – money is gone
Remember: FIFA.com/tickets is the ONLY legitimate source. If it sounds too good to be true, it absolutely is.
What are the warning signs of fake tickets?
Visual Red Flags on Fake Tickets:
- Poor print quality – Blurry text, pixelated images, faded colors
- Spelling errors – "Fiffa," "Workd Cup," incorrect stadium names
- Wrong logos or outdated branding – Old FIFA logos, incorrect tournament branding
- Generic ticket templates – Not matching FIFA's official ticket design
- Invalid QR codes or barcodes – Test scanning before trusting
- Suspicious email addresses – Official tickets come from @fifa.com domains only
Authentication Checks:
- Verify purchase source – Did you buy from FIFA.com? If not, it's likely fake
- Check FIFA app – Official tickets will appear in FIFA's mobile ticketing app
- Confirmation emails – Should come from official FIFA email addresses (@fifa.com)
- Security features – Official tickets have holograms, watermarks, or special security elements
Important: If you suspect you have fake tickets, do NOT attempt to use them at the stadium. You will be denied entry and may face legal consequences. Report the fraud immediately to local authorities and FIFA.
What should I do if I've been scammed?
Immediate Actions:
- Stop further payments – Do not send any more money to the scammer
- Document everything – Save all emails, messages, payment receipts, ticket PDFs, and website screenshots
- Contact your bank/credit card company – Report fraud and attempt to reverse charges (success depends on payment method used)
- Report to authorities:
- Local police (file official report)
- FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) if in the US
- Action Fraud (UK), ACCC (Australia), or equivalent in your country
- Report to FIFA – Use FIFA's official reporting channels (available on FIFA.com)
- Report the seller platform – If on social media, report the account; if on a marketplace, report to the platform
Reality Check:
- If you paid via wire transfer, Western Union, cryptocurrency, or gift cards: Money is likely unrecoverable
- If you paid via credit card: You may be able to dispute charges (chargeback)
- Act quickly – most chargeback windows are 60-120 days
Next Steps:
- Purchase legitimate tickets through FIFA.com when sales open
- Share your experience on scam-reporting websites to warn others
- Be more vigilant in future ticket purchases
How can I verify legitimate ticket sellers?
The ONLY Legitimate Ticket Sources:
- FIFA.com/tickets – The official FIFA ticketing website
- Look for HTTPS and fifa.com domain
- Verify SSL certificate (padlock icon in browser)
- Authorized National Football Associations
- Your country's official FA may have allocation (check FIFA.com for list)
- Example: US Soccer, The FA (England), FFF (France), etc.
- FIFA Official Hospitality Partners
- Listed on FIFA.com with verified partner badges
- Sell premium packages (expensive but legitimate)
Verification Checklist:
- ✅ Website URL is exactly fifa.com (not fiffa.com, fifa-tickets.com, etc.)
- ✅ Seller is listed on FIFA's official authorized partner list
- ✅ Payment processed through secure FIFA portal
- ✅ Confirmation email from @fifa.com address
- ✅ Tickets appear in official FIFA mobile app
RED FLAGS – NOT LEGITIMATE:
- ❌ Third-party resale sites (StubHub, Viagogo, etc.)
- ❌ Social media sellers (Facebook, Instagram, X/Twitter)
- ❌ Classified ads (Craigslist, Gumtree)
- ❌ Email spam offering tickets
- ❌ Ticket brokers not listed on FIFA.com
When in doubt: Contact FIFA directly through their official website contact form to verify any seller's legitimacy.
Are social media ticket sellers safe?
Short Answer: NO. Social media ticket sellers are NOT safe and are almost always scams.
Why Social Media Sellers Are Dangerous:
- No Verification: Anyone can claim to have tickets – no proof required
- No Buyer Protection: Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter) offer zero protection for private ticket sales
- Anonymous Sellers: Fake profiles, stolen identities, no accountability
- Untraceable Payments: Scammers often request wire transfers or cryptocurrency
- FIFA Violation: Even if genuine, selling FIFA tickets through unauthorized channels violates FIFA's terms and tickets may be invalid
Common Social Media Scam Tactics:
- "I have 2 extra tickets and can't go" – Creates false legitimacy
- Fake "proof" screenshots of tickets (easily fabricated)
- "First come first served, pay now!" – Creates urgency
- Professional-looking profiles with stolen photos
- Posts in World Cup fan groups and forums
The Reality:
99.9% of FIFA World Cup tickets advertised on social media are scams. The 0.1% that aren't are still violating FIFA's terms and may be revoked, leaving you with no ticket and no refund.
Official Rule: FIFA explicitly prohibits ticket sales through unauthorized channels. Tickets must be purchased through FIFA.com or authorized partners ONLY.
Bottom Line: Never, under any circumstances, buy World Cup tickets from social media sellers. You WILL lose your money.
What does FIFA's official ticketing website look like?
How to Recognize the Real FIFA Ticketing Site:
URL and Security:
- Exact URL: https://www.fifa.com/tickets (or direct FIFA ticketing portal link from FIFA.com)
- SSL Certificate: Green padlock icon in browser address bar
- Domain: Must be fifa.com – NOT fifa-tickets.com, fifatickets.org, fifa-2030.com, etc.
Official Website Features:
- Professional design matching FIFA's global branding
- Official FIFA logo and 2030 tournament branding
- Multiple language options (English, Spanish, French, Arabic, etc.)
- Detailed ticketing information and FAQs
- Secure login portal for FIFA account
- Official payment gateway (Visa, Mastercard)
- Terms and conditions clearly linked
- Contact information and customer support
RED FLAGS for Fake Websites:
- Misspelled URLs (fiffa.com, fifa-tkts.com)
- Poor grammar or spelling errors
- Requests for unusual payment methods (wire transfer, crypto)
- Unrealistic prices or "guaranteed tickets" claims
- Pressure to "act now" or time-limited offers
- No official FIFA branding or outdated logos
- Missing security certificate (no padlock icon)
How to Access Safely:
- Type fifa.com directly into your browser (don't click email links)
- Navigate to the ticketing section from FIFA's homepage
- Bookmark the official ticketing page for future access
- Never click links in unsolicited emails claiming to be from FIFA
Official Announcements: FIFA will announce ticket sales through their official website and verified social media accounts (@FIFAWorldCup on X/Twitter, Facebook, Instagram with blue verification checkmarks).
Match Day Experience
What time should I arrive at the stadium before kickoff?
Recommended Arrival Times:
- Group Stage Matches: Arrive 60-90 minutes before kickoff
- Knockout Rounds: Arrive 90-120 minutes before kickoff
- Semi-Finals & Final: Arrive 2-3 hours before kickoff
Why Arrive Early:
- Security Screening: Bag checks, metal detectors, ticket verification can take 30-60 minutes
- Large Crowds: Tens of thousands of fans arriving simultaneously
- Finding Your Seat: Large stadiums can be confusing to navigate
- Food/Beverages: Time to purchase snacks and drinks before match starts
- Pre-Match Atmosphere: Enjoy fan festivities, anthems, opening ceremonies
- Transportation Delays: Public transport will be crowded; allow extra time
Important: Stadium gates typically open 2-3 hours before kickoff. Arriving too late may mean missing the start of the match due to security queues.
Tip: Check FIFA's official match-day guide and stadium-specific information for exact gate opening times and recommended arrival windows.
What items are prohibited in stadiums?
Commonly Prohibited Items (based on FIFA regulations):
Absolutely Forbidden:
- Weapons, knives, or sharp objects
- Firearms, explosives, or fireworks
- Illegal drugs or substances
- Laser pointers
- Drones or remote-controlled devices
- Large flags or banners (small flags usually OK)
- Flares, smoke bombs, or pyrotechnics
- Glass bottles or containers
- Large umbrellas (may obstruct views)
Usually Prohibited:
- Large bags – Only small bags typically allowed (check specific stadium size limits, often A4 size or smaller)
- Backpacks or luggage – Leave at hotel
- Outside food and beverages – Must purchase inside stadium (some exceptions for baby food, medical needs)
- Alcoholic beverages – Cannot bring from outside
- Selfie sticks, tripods – May obstruct views
- Professional camera equipment – Large lenses, commercial filming gear
- Laptops or tablets – Security concern
- Political or offensive banners/clothing
What You CAN Bring:
- Small personal bag or purse (within size limits)
- Smartphone and regular cameras
- Small flags (usually up to 1m x 1.5m)
- Sunscreen and sun protection (small bottles)
- Essential medications (with prescription)
- Baby formula and baby food (for infants)
- Empty refillable water bottles (fill inside stadium)
Important: Prohibited item lists vary by stadium and security level. Check FIFA's official match-day guidelines and specific stadium rules before attending. Items that don't comply will be confiscated at security and not returned.
Can I bring food and drinks into the stadium?
General Rule: No outside food or beverages allowed.
FIFA Stadium Policy (typical):
- Outside Food: Not permitted (must purchase from stadium concessions)
- Outside Drinks: Not permitted, including sealed bottles
- Alcohol: Cannot bring from outside; beer may be sold inside stadium (varies by country)
Exceptions:
- Baby Food/Formula: Allowed for infants and young children
- Medical Needs: Essential nutritional items for medical conditions (may require documentation)
- Empty Water Bottles: Sometimes allowed; can be refilled at water fountains inside stadium
Food & Drink Inside Stadium:
- Concession stands sell snacks, meals, soft drinks, coffee
- Expect long lines and high prices (typical for major events)
- Water fountains/refill stations usually available
- Alcohol sales may be restricted or limited depending on host country regulations
Recommendations:
- Eat a meal before arriving at the stadium
- Bring cash or card for concessions (some stadiums are cashless)
- Purchase snacks/drinks well before match starts to avoid long halftime queues
- Stay hydrated, especially in summer heat
Morocco Note: As a Muslim-majority country, Morocco's stadiums may not serve alcohol. Portugal and Spain stadiums will likely sell beer.
Are cameras and phones allowed in stadiums?
Yes, personal cameras and smartphones are allowed!
What You CAN Bring:
- Smartphones: Fully permitted for personal photos and videos
- Personal Cameras: Compact digital cameras and DSLRs with small lenses (usually under 30cm/12 inches)
- Action Cameras: GoPro-style cameras (usually permitted)
- Personal Photography: Take photos and short videos for personal use
What You CANNOT Bring:
- Professional Equipment: Large telephoto lenses (over 30cm), professional video cameras, commercial filming gear
- Tripods and Monopods: May obstruct views or aisles
- Selfie Sticks: Usually prohibited as they obstruct others' views
- Drones: Absolutely forbidden for security reasons
Filming Restrictions:
- Personal Use Only: You can record for personal memories
- No Commercial Use: Cannot sell, license, or commercially distribute footage
- No Live Streaming: Broadcasting match footage online may violate FIFA copyright (though personal social media posts are generally tolerated)
- Broadcasting Rights: Official match footage is FIFA's intellectual property
Tips:
- Charge your phone fully before the match (limited charging options)
- Bring a portable battery pack (within stadium bag size limits)
- Be respectful when taking photos – don't obstruct others' views
- Stadium WiFi may be available but will be slow due to high usage
Social Media: Feel free to share photos and short clips on your personal social media. Just don't engage in commercial broadcasting or extensive live streaming of the match itself.
What happens if there's bad weather during a match?
Match Continuation Policy:
FIFA World Cup matches very rarely get canceled due to weather. The tournament takes place in summer (June-July) in generally mild climates, so weather disruptions are unlikely. However:
Rain:
- Light to Moderate Rain: Match continues as normal – football is played in rain
- Heavy Rain: Referee may temporarily suspend play for player safety, then resume
- Bring: Light rain jacket or poncho (within bag size limits). Some stadiums have partial roof coverage.
Extreme Heat:
- Very Hot Days: Referee may authorize additional water breaks (especially in Morocco, southern Spain)
- Player Safety: FIFA monitors temperatures; matches may be moved to evening kickoffs
- Fan Safety: Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, seek shade during breaks
Lightning/Thunderstorms:
- Most Likely Reason for Delay: Lightning is a safety hazard
- Protocol: Players and fans may be asked to take cover until storm passes
- Resumption: Match resumes once safe; rarely canceled entirely
Match Postponement (Rare):
- If a match cannot be completed, FIFA will reschedule (date TBD)
- Tickets typically remain valid for the rescheduled match
- Fans unable to attend rescheduled match may be eligible for refunds (FIFA policy varies)
Preparation Tips:
- Check weather forecast before match day
- Bring light rain gear and sunscreen
- Dress in layers (stadiums can be cool in evening)
- Follow stadium announcements and staff instructions
Historical Note: In modern World Cup history, matches being canceled due to weather is extremely rare. The 2030 summer timing in Mediterranean climates makes significant weather disruptions unlikely.
Important Disclaimer
This website is NOT affiliated with, endorsed by, or connected to FIFA, the FIFA World Cup, or any official tournament organizers. We are an independent information platform providing publicly available information about FIFA World Cup 2030 tickets.
All ticket purchases must be made through official FIFA channels:
- FIFA's official website: fifa.com/tickets
- Authorized National Football Associations
- FIFA-approved hospitality partners (listed on FIFA.com)
Never purchase tickets from unauthorized third-party sellers, social media, or resale websites. These tickets are almost always scams or invalid.