In partnership with the Seattle FIFA World Cup 26™Local Organizing Committee, the Alliance will keep you informed and engaged as we prepare to host the world’s largest sporting event in 2026. Seattle will host six World Cup matches, June 11–July 19, 2026. The Draw is set to take place on Dec. 5, 2025, with teams assigned to specific match schedules, including venues and kick-off times, shortly thereafter.
The application period for the first ticket draw for the FIFA World Cup 26™ opens on Sept. 10, 2025. Fans are encouraged to register their interest and create a FIFA ID. This registration ensures they are made aware of ticketing dates, next steps and processes. On Sept. 10, fans will then be able to use their FIFA ID to apply for their first chance to buy tickets.
There will be several distinct ticket sales phases from the start of sales in September through to the final match on July 19, 2026. Each phase may differ in purchasing processes, payment methods and ticket products, and full details on each phase will be released in the coming months.
Nadia Flusche connects you to the Local Organizing Committee and works to keep local businesses informed and engaged in shaping Pioneer Square’s FIFA World Cup experience, as well as to honor our Indigenous history. She also works to build the neighborhood’s long-term strength by positioning this historic district as a premier destination before, during, and beyond the tournament. She’s helping us all work together to make sure Pioneer Square benefits from the energy, visitors, and excitement the World Cup will bring to our neighborhood. Find out more about the work of the Stadium Neighborhood Liaisons.
Many resources are available to help your business get “World Cup Ready”! You’ll find toolkits, webinars, and the latest news at the Local Organizing Committee’s website.
You can also find business resources produced by the Seattle Chamber, including these webinars:
World Cup Ready Resources
FAQs
How many people are expected to attend the matches?
Current estimates expect 750,000 visitors across 24 days. Seattle also has three base cities nearby (Renton, Portland, Spokane) that will host teams for about three weeks. More updates will come once teams are drawn in December.
How will I know when there are more specific attendance numbers?
Stay updated by subscribing to the Alliance’s World Cup newsletter. Continuous information sharing, neighborhood planning, and collaboration are the keys to success. The Local Organizing Committee will share updates and better estimates once more details are confirmed, and we’ll share them with you as soon as we know more.
What streets will be closed during the events?
Street closures are being discussed and will likely be necessary given the size of the crowds. Any closures will include proper loading zones to maintain deliveries and operations.
What are the opportunities for outdoor or pop-up locations?
SDOT offers Outdoor Dining or Sidewalk Café Permits. They also provide permits for Sidewalk Merchandise Displays. It’s strongly recommended to apply early. Keep in mind that indoor seating is limited, and turnover may be low, so outdoor dining can help maximize sales.
What options do I have if I want to serve alcohol?
Washington State recently passed a bill that expands options for alcohol consumption in public spaces. Read more here. There may be an option to apply for a special liquor license covering up to three neighboring businesses. Updates will follow as more details are confirmed.
What if my small eatery wants to partner with others?
The Local Organizing Committee is working to provide a collaboration booth for small restaurants inside the Fan Fest Zone at Seattle Center. That area is expected to draw about 30,000 daily visitors over about four weeks. More details will come as planning progresses.
How is the Local Organizing Committee helping to promote my business?
An interactive app is being developed to encourage visitors to stop by local businesses and landmarks. Testing is planned for September. Interested businesses will need to sign a non-disclosure agreement (NDA) to participate.
How can I volunteer for the World Cup events?
FIFA World Cup 26™ volunteers will be part of a once-in-a-generation team – uniting three countries, 16 Host Cities and billions of hearts around the world. Find out more about volunteering.
Where can I find the match schedule?
There will be 104 games featuring 48 teams played across 16 host cities in three countries: Canada, Mexico and the United States. You can see the match schedule, without the teams assigned yet, at this website. You can also watch this video about how the matches were scheduled across the venues.
Where can I find more information?
The Alliance will keep this webpage updated throughout the World Cup matches. Additional information will be added as it becomes available, including details about permits, street closures, Fan Fest details, viewing parties, and how to participate.
You can also find information at the following sites:
SeattleFWC26.org – Vision & legacy, match info, business & volunteer guides, news
FIFA Men’s World Cup 2026 | seattle.gov – City planning: safety, transit, logistics, neighborhood preparation
https://www.seattlesports.org/events/fifa-2026 – Match schedules, Fan Fest, press updates, community programs
https://www.soundersfc.com/fifa-world-cup-2026 – Waterfront Fan Fest details, tickets, team-centric community updates
https://www.fifa.com/en/articles/world-cup-2026-host-city-seattle-guide – Official tournament overview, stadium info, visitor guidance
https://www.fifa.com/en/tournaments/mens/worldcup/canadamexicousa2026 – ticketing program, schedule, hospitality, match schedule announcement