More than 1.5 million fans from 210 countries signed up for the Visa Presale Draw — the first phase of World Cup 2026 tickets — in the first 24 hours.

The entry period opened on Wednesday and continues until next Wednesday (11 am ET). Beginning on Sept. 29, fans whose names are drawn will begin getting instructions on how to purchase tickets.

• Important: When fans enter during this window won’t affect their chances of winning.

Paul Kennedy edited Soccer America for 41 years (1985-2026). He began writing for SA in 1974. He started writing for France Football in 1978 and has served on in Ballon d'Or jury since 2007.