The 2026 FIFA World Cup is quickly approaching, and the first phase of ticket sign-ups was released this week. While tickets may be challenging to get, with multiple phases for releasing tickets and a lottery system, there’s another way to see the games in person. The World Cup is looking for volunteers across all the host cities to help run the massive games smoothly. Organizers are looking for 65,000 volunteers for the 2026 games, and applications are open now.
“Volunteers are the heart, soul and smile of FIFA tournaments,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “They get to show off their local pride, gain a behind-the-scenes view of the tournament and make memories and friendships that can last a lifetime, while supporting a historic event. We hope interested individuals will join us as we welcome the world to North America in 2026.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held across 16 host cities, including San Francisco and Los Angeles in the United States. Each city will need volunteers, and the application process has already begun.
What qualifications do you need to volunteer?
Volunteers are not required to have prior experience, and people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply.
- Be 18 or older
- Legally eligible to volunteer
- Good knowledge of English
- Knowledge of additional languages is a plus
- Mexico: knowledge of English and Spanish is preferred
- Canada: French is considered a plus
When can you apply?
Applications opened on August 11, and you can still apply for your city online. Tryouts for selected applicants are anticipated to begin in October 2025, so now is the time to apply. Training for volunteers chosen will start in March 2026. The first match of the tournament is scheduled for June 11, 2026 in Mexico City, and the first game in the Bay Area will be on June 13, 2026.
You can learn more about volunteer opportunities at the FIFA World Cup and fill out an application here.