The FIFA World Cup is one of the most watched sporting events in the world, with billions of fans tuning in to watch the best soccer nations compete every 4 years. The 2022 World Cup will be held in Qatar from November 21 to December 18, 2022. With the tournament less than a year away, many fans are starting to look into how to get tickets to attend the games in person. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the ticket sales process and prices, when and where you can buy tickets, and tips for securing tickets to the matches you want to see.
When do World Cup Tickets Go on Sale?
FIFA has announced that the first phase of ticket sales for the general public will begin in January 2022. Specific dates have not been confirmed yet, but tickets will likely go on sale sometime in January through FIFA’s website. This first come, first served sales period often sees the highest demand as fans rush to secure tickets. Additional phases of ticket sales will occur if tickets remain available. These further sales periods usually take place in the months leading up to the tournament.
FIFA will also run random draws for ticket sales. Fans can enter the ticket draw during the designated registration period and be randomly selected to purchase World Cup tickets. The ticket draw helps ensure an equal chance for fans around the world to get tickets. The timeline for the draws has not been announced yet.
Besides the general public ticket sales, certain tickets are allocated to the participating teams, hospitality programs, sponsors, and the local organizing committee. These tickets are not available for the general public to purchase directly through FIFA.
Where Can You Buy World Cup Tickets?
The main way to buy legitimate World Cup tickets is directly through FIFA during the ticket sales phases. Tickets can be purchased online through FIFA’s website. You will need to create an account and be ready to buy when the sales periods open.
Here are some other avenues to get official World Cup tickets:
– National Team Associations: A certain allotment of tickets goes to the national federations of the teams who qualified. Some associations sell tickets to fans, so check with your nation’s soccer association.
– Hospitality Packages: FIFA offers premium ticket packages that include high-end accommodations and other perks. These are expensive but guarantee tickets.
– Sponsors: Major World Cup sponsors like Adidas and Coca-Cola get ticket allocations as part of their partnerships. Sometimes they offer tickets as prizes or experiences.
– Qatar Tourism: As hosts, Qatar gets a large number of tickets. Their tourism board may sell or award some tickets leading up to the event.
It’s important to only buy World Cup tickets through official sources. Many unauthorized websites try to sell fake or speculative tickets that aren’t valid. Stick to FIFA and legitimate resale platforms recommended by FIFA to avoid scams.
Authorized Ticket Resellers
If you miss out on tickets during the initial sales periods, authorized ticket resellers are an option to pick up World Cup tickets. These are sites that FIFA permits to resell tickets at market value. Two recommended resale platforms are Match Hospitality and Stubhub. Just be aware that resale tickets will be more expensive than face value.
How Much do World Cup Tickets Cost?
FIFA has not released the exact ticket prices for the 2022 World Cup yet. Based on previous World Cups, we can expect the prices to range significantly depending on the match and seat location. Here are some estimated price ranges:
– Group stage matches: $30-$150
– Round of 16: $75-$250
– Quarterfinals: $150-$500
– Semifinals: $250-$800
– 3rd place playoff: $200-$600
– Final: $600-$1500+
The most in-demand matches like the final and key knockout games will be the most expensive. Opening round group games featuring lesser-known teams will have cheaper ticket prices.
Within each match, ticket prices vary based on the seat location in the stadium. Category 1 tickets are central premium seats on the halfway line. Category 2-3 are other central seats closer to the action. Category 4 tickets are behind the goals or corners with more distant views. Ticket prices go up for each better category.
We’ll know the exact 2022 World Cup ticket prices once FIFA releases them leading up to sales. Expect prices around 20-30% higher on average compared to 2018 World Cup tickets.
Tips for Getting World Cup Tickets
With over 3 million tickets available but estimated demand of 40-50 million, getting World Cup tickets will be very competitive. Here are some tips to improve your chances:
– Sign up for FIFA ticket alerts – Be ready to buy when sales open
– Prioritize matches – Pick your 1-2 must-see games per round
– Apply for tickets draws – Enter your name even if odds are low
– Be flexible – Have backup options if your top choices sell out
– Check authorized resellers – Be ready to pay more for in demand tickets
– Beware of scams – Only use official sources, don’t get ripped off
– Act fast – Popular matches will sell out in minutes
– Leverage presales – Bank cards and loyalty programs may have early access
– Buy with friends – Coordinating with a group helps get more tickets
– Get on waitlists – Remaining tickets may be released later
Persistence and preparation will be key to navigating the World Cup ticket process. Signing up for presales, deciding on target games, and moving quickly during sales periods will help. With millions vying for tickets, manage your expectations and have backup plans for hard-to-get matches.
What Restrictions Are There on World Cup Tickets?
FIFA places some restrictions on who can buy and use World Cup tickets:
– Name Changes – FIFA generally does not allow name changes on tickets once purchased. The name printed will be required to enter the stadium.
– Resale – Ticket resale is only permitted on FIFA authorized platforms. Scalping or unauthorized resale is illegal.
– One Game Per Day – To allow more fans to attend, each ticket allows entry to only one game per day. Separate tickets are required for multiple matches in a day.
– No Refunds – FIFA does not offer refunds on tickets, only credits for future events. Once purchased, you are committed to that ticket.
– Country Residency – For high demand matches, buyers may be restricted to residents of certain countries.
– Proof of Identity – Fans must bring IDs that match the ticket at stadium entrances.
– Terms and Conditions – Purchasers must agree to FIFA ticket terms prohibiting misconduct, ambush marketing, etc.
Make sure to carefully review the ticket terms before purchasing. While restrictions limit some options for reselling or transferring tickets, they help FIFA maintain fair access for all fans.
Where Can You View the Schedule and Stadium Locations?
To start planning which specific World Cup matches you want to see, the full schedule and stadium locations are available on FIFA’s website. Here is a summary:
Groups Stage Matches: November 21 to December 2
The 32 qualifying teams are drawn into 8 groups of 4 teams each. Each team plays the other 3 teams in its group once. There are 4 games per group during the group stage. These will be played across 8 stadiums in Qatar.
Round of 16: December 3 to December 6
The top 2 teams from each group advance to the knockout round of 16. These single elimination games narrow the field down to 8 teams. Qatar has 5 venues hosting round of 16 matches.
Quarterfinals: December 9 and December 10
The 8 victorious teams square off in the quarterfinals held across 3 stadiums in Qatar.
Semifinals: December 13 and December 14
The 4 quarterfinal winners play in the semifinals to decide who advances to the championship and third place games. Both semifinals are in Al Bayt Stadium.
Third Place Game: December 17
The two losing semifinalists play in the third place match at Khalifa International Stadium.
World Cup Final: December 18
The remaining semifinal winners contest the World Cup Final at Lusail Iconic Stadium to crown the 2022 World Cup Champions.
Review the match schedule and start targeting which games you most want to see!
What Cities and Stadiums are the World Cup Matches Being Played In?
Since Qatar is a small country, all 8 stadiums hosting World Cup matches are within a short distance from the capital city of Doha:
City | Stadium | Capacity |
---|---|---|
Doha | Khalifa International Stadium | 45,416 |
Doha | Al Thumama Stadium | 40,000 |
Doha | Ahmad bin Ali Stadium | 40,000 |
Al Khor | Al Bayt Stadium | 60,000 |
Al Rayyan | Education City Stadium | 40,000 |
Al Rayyan | Khalifa International Stadium | 40,000 |
Al Wakrah | Al Janoub Stadium | 40,000 |
Lusail | Lusail Iconic Stadium | 80,000 |
The farthest stadium is only about 35 miles from central Doha. This compact geographic footprint makes getting around to matches convenient for fans. Many fixtures will be accessible by Qatar’s metro system.
The centerpiece Lusail Iconic Stadium will host the World Cup final. With a capacity of 80,000, it will be expanded after the tournament to create additional space for community use. The other 7 new state-of-the-art venues each have at least 40,000 seats and offer prime viewing.
What Options are Available for Accommodations Near the Stadiums?
Securing a place to stay is part of planning your World Cup trip. With over 1 million international fans expected to visit Qatar for the tournament, hotel rooms will be in very high demand. Here are some options to consider:
– Doha Hotels – Qatar’s capital has accommodation choices ranging from luxury 5-star resorts to budget hotels. Book well in advance to secure a room during peak demand.
– Apartment Rentals – Many Doha residents list their apartments and villas on services like Airbnb for World Cup visitors. These give you more space and amenities.
– Fan Villages – FIFA plans to offer lodging in tented villages and cabin communities near stadiums specifically for World Cup spectators. Details are still pending.
– Cruise Ships – Docked cruise ships with lodging will supplement Doha’s hotel capacity. These floating hotels are expected to house several thousand fans.
– Neighboring Countries – With Qatar’s limited size, some fans may choose to stay in nearby Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or Saudi Arabia and fly in for matches.
– Camper Vans/RV Parks – Dedicated areas for recreational vehicles will cater to road trippers coming from the Gulf region. This provides a budget way to visit Qatar.
Booking accommodations far in advance is highly recommended with the influx of fans. Those willing to stay outside Qatar in neighboring countries will have more available options.
Can You Get a Hayya Card as a Fan to Attend the World Cup?
The Hayya Card is required for all fans attending World Cup matches and provides entry into Qatar during the tournament. Here are key details on securing this fan ID:
– Automatically Issued with Tickets – When you purchase official match tickets from FIFA or authorized resellers, the Hayya Card is included.
– Allows Stadium Access – The Hayya Card will be scanned with your ticket to permit entry into World Cup stadiums on match days.
– Acts as Qatar Visa – The Hayya Card serves as a temporary visa for international visitors during the tournament. Standard visas are not required with a valid Hayya Card.
– Provides Free Local Transport – Cardholders can ride free on the Doha metro and bus system during World Cup dates.
– Available in Digital App – Fans can download the Hayya app and add their card to a digital wallet for convenient access.
– Mandatory Fan Identification – You must bring your Hayya Card to Qatar and carry it at all times on match days along with your passport and match ticket. It will be checked frequently.
– Limited Availability – Hayya Cards can only be obtained along with an event ticket, or through special fan packages. They are not sold separately.
All fans planning to be in Qatar for any World Cup matches must secure this essential identification document along with their tickets. It provides efficient access to stadiums while keeping track of visitors.
What Options Exist for Traveling Between World Cup Venues?
Qatar has developed extensive transportation infrastructure so fans can conveniently travel between the 8 World Cup stadiums and surrounding areas:
– Doha Metro – The metro system links most of the event venues along 3 lines. Metro trains will be free for all Hayya Card holders during the World Cup.
– Inter-City Rail – High speed rail between Doha and Lusail makes reaching matches farther afield fast and easy.
– Bus Shuttle Network – Official match day shuttle buses will continuously transport spectators to stadiums from designated pick-up points.
– Ride Hailing Apps – Services like Uber are readily available, especially in Doha. Prices may surge around heavy demand times.
– Taxi Services – Hailing a cab or booking one through an agency like Karwa is an alternative to navigate Qatar’s roads.
– Car Rentals – Driving yourself allows flexibility to reach more remote venues and explore Qatar. Just factor in costs, license requirements and parking availability near stadiums.
– Private Drivers – Wealthy travelers can hire a car and driver for door-to-door service during their World Cup visit.
– Fan Zone Transport – Special buses will link participating Fan Zones in Doha to the stadiums on match days.
Thanks to Qatar’s investments, traveling between stadiums should be easy with public transit like the metro being the most convenient and cost effective option. Just build in extra time when transiting around Qatar during the busy World Cup period.
What Fan Experiences and Entertainment will be Available at the World Cup?
Beyond the matches themselves, FIFA and Qatar are planning extensive fan experiences and entertainment options:
– Opening/Closing Ceremonies – Elaborate shows will kick off and conclude the World Cup centered at Al Bayt Stadium. Expect music, culture and stunning displays.
– FIFA Fan Fest – Doha’s main public viewing areas will feature live match screenings, music acts, food and activations. Similar Fan Fests are planned for other cities.
– Cultural Villages – Spaces dedicated to each qualifying nation will showcase local food, music, attractions and products from every country.
– Football Theme Park – Family entertainment like mini pitches, kick-about cages and video games will be available at this football centric amusement park.
– Concerts – Top global music stars are expected to hold concerts on rest days during the tournament.
– Qatar Cultural Events – Museums, art exhibits, and events highlighting Qatar’s heritage will run concurrently with the World Cup.
– Desert Safaris – Day trips from Doha into Qatar’s sand dunes offer cultural tourism activities like dune bashing, camel rides and camping.
– Boat Tours – Hit Qatar’s coastal spots via cruise boats and yachts docked at the Doha Corniche.
– Shopping and Dining – Qatar has markets, malls and a wide array of cuisines to enjoy during your stay.
Visiting fans will have ample activities to take part in on days without matches or after games to experience Qatar’s culture, food and entertainment.
Conclusion
Tickets for the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 will be in extremely high demand with over 3 million available for around 1 million international fans expected to attend. Planning well in advance and being strategic with your ticket applications will be key to securing a spot at World Cup matches.
While costs will be higher and availability tight, witnessing a World Cup live is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Taking the time to understand the ticket sales process, assess your options, and act quickly will give you the best shot at getting seats to the games you want. Consistency and persistence through the long lead up will pay off when you can cheer on your national team live in Qatar.
Even without tickets, there will still be many fan experiences and cultural immersion opportunities to take advantage of. Go prepared for scalping competition and beware of scammers looking to profit off unsuspecting fans. Use only authorized ticket sellers, book accommodations early, and leverage Qatar’s efficient transportation network to make getting around easy.
With strategic planning and commitment, you can secure your place at football’s biggest event and join over a million passionate supporters celebrating the beautiful game. The 2022 World Cup in Qatar is sure to be a monumental experience filled with excitement and lifetime memories.