The FIFA World Cup is one of the most popular sporting events in the world, with millions of fans eager to get their hands on the coveted match tickets. As the World Cup 2022 in Qatar approaches, demand for tickets is higher than ever. However, the ticket booking process can be confusing for first-timers. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process, from registration to getting the tickets in hand.
When and Where is the World Cup 2022?
The FIFA World Cup 2022 will be held in Qatar from 21 November to 18 December 2022. It is the first time the tournament is being hosted in the Middle East. Matches will take place across 8 state-of-the-art stadiums in 5 different cities – Doha, Al Khor, Al Wakrah, Al Rayyan, and Lusail. The opening match and final will be played at the 80,000 capacity Lusail Iconic Stadium.
World Cup Ticketing Timeline
FIFA follows a structured ticketing schedule for all its World Cup events. Here is an overview of the sales phases for the Qatar World Cup:
Registration Phase – May to August 2021
Fans must register on FIFA.com/tickets during this period to get a chance for next sales phases.
First Come First Serve Phase – January 2022
Tickets allocated via a lottery system for successful registrants.
Last Minute Sales Phase – April 2022
Remaining tickets available on a first come first serve basis.
Last Minute Sales Phase 2 – November 2022
Final opportunity to buy very limited remaining tickets.
So registering early is highly recommended to get into the lottery and have the best shot at grabbing tickets.
Types of World Cup Tickets
FIFA offers different ticket categories for the World Cup matches. The number and type of tickets available will depend on the stage of the tournament.
Individual Match Tickets
For single matches across group and knock-out stages. Available in all 4 price categories.
Team Specific Tickets
Follow a specific team through the group stage – Category 1 or 2.
Four-Stadium tickets
Attend 4 matches in different cities – Category 3 or 4.
Opening Match and Final
Top price Category 1 tickets only. Huge demand expected.
So choose the ticket type per your budget, interest and how much of the World Cup you want to experience. Solo match tickets offer flexibility while team specific and stadium packages are cost effective.
World Cup Ticket Categories and Prices
Tickets are divided into 4 pricing categories, ranked by seat quality and location in stadium. Prices displayed are approximate estimates for individual matches.
Category | Location | Price Range |
---|---|---|
Category 1 | Prime locations like halfway line | $220-$850 |
Category 2 | Sideline seats behind goals | $165-$650 |
Category 3 | Corners and ends | $110-$425 |
Category 4 | Behind goals | $55-$210 |
Of course, tickets for the final match will be at a premium in any category. Discounts up to 50% are available for residents of Qatar. Overall, Category 3 and 4 provide the most affordable options for average fans.
How to Apply for World Cup Tickets
Applying for the lottery to purchase World Cup tickets involves a few simple steps:
1. Register Online
Go to FIFA.com/tickets during the registration period and sign-up with your personal details and email address. Receive a confirmation email to verify registration.
2. Select Matches
Browse the match schedule and choose the games you want to attend. Shortlist at least 3 matches to increase chances.
3. Submit Ticket Application
Complete the ticket application with your match choices, ticket type, category and quantity. Receive an application number.
4. Hope for Lottery Luck!
Wait for the lottery results email during the sales phase. If successful, move on to ticket payment.
The more matches you apply for, the higher the likelihood of getting rewarded with tickets in the lottery draw. So make a comprehensive wishlist of games to attend.
Tips to Increase World Cup Ticket Chances
With over 1 million tickets available and more than 2 million expected applications, the competition for getting World Cup tickets will be fierce. Here are some tips to optimize your chances:
– Register as early as possible – Don’t wait until the last minute to sign-up. Be ready as soon as registration opens.
– Join your country’s fan club – Fan clubs get allotments for team specific ticket packages.
– Be flexible on matches – Have a wide range of group stage options as knockouts are hard to get.
– Apply for less popular games – The opening match and final will have insane demand. Go for other group matches.
– Select higher capacity stadiums – Opt for larger venues over smaller ones for availability.
– Try for Category 3/4 tickets – Affordable tickets have higher quotas available.
– Get team certificates – Proves you attended past World Cups of your team.
– Adjust expectations – Understand the odds and have backups in place in case you don’t get tickets.
Purchasing your World Cup Tickets
Once you receive an email confirming your World Cup ticket application was successful in the lottery, the next steps are:
1. Select Exact Match Tickets
Choose your preferred date, time, stadium, seating area etc for the allocated matches.
2. Enter Payment Details
Provide your credit/debit card info and billing address. Visa is the preferred payment method.
3. Receive E-Tickets
Your electronic tickets will be emailed a few weeks before the match date for you to print out.
4. Enjoy the Games!
Head to the stadium on match day and go through security checks before the sporting action.
Note that payment must be completed within a specific deadline, otherwise you risk losing out on the tickets allocated to you. Avoid disappointment by purchasing promptly.
Rules for World Cup Tickets
There are some rules and restrictions that apply to the use of World Cup tickets:
– Tickets are non-transferable and only valid for the person they are issued to. Reselling is illegal.
– Be prepared to present a valid photo ID at the stadium for verification.
– One ticket per person. Infants can sit on adult’s lap without a seat.
– Getting a Hayya card is mandatory for international visitors to Qatar.
– Fans of countries playing will get priority in ticket allocations.
– Ticket categories may be adjusted at FIFA’s discretion for certain matches.
– Prices tend to be higher for knock-out vs group stage games.
Be sure to carefully read and agree to the ticketing terms and conditions during the application process to avoid issues.
Alternate Ways to Get Tickets
If you miss out on tickets through official channels, there are some alternate avenues to explore:
– Hospitality Packages – FIFA sells premium hospitality tickets coupled with 5-star accommodation and exclusive extras.
– Secondary Resale Markets – Websites like Stubhub may offer marked up ticket resales closer to the event.
– Travel Agencies – Packaged deals combining flights, hotels and match tickets for your trip.
– Outside the Stadium – Fans may sell extra tickets outside venues – but can’t guarantee authenticity.
However, be very cautious of scalpers and touts selling fake or stolen tickets. Stick to trusted established sources where possible. Patience can pay off in getting last minute inventory.
Booking Accommodation for the World Cup
In addition to getting match tickets, you also need to book accommodations for your time in Qatar. Some tips:
– Research location of your stadiums and find centrally located hotels/apartments.
– Utilize AirBnB for affordable long term stays in apartments.
– Book well in advance as rooms will fill up fast closer to event.
– Consider staying outside Doha in nearby cities to save money.
– Camping in the desert is a unique lodging experience.
– Connect with other fans to share travel and accommodation costs.
-Factor in taxes, fees and deposits into your lodging budget.
Since Qatar is a small country, you can stay almost anywhere and commute to matches conveniently. Just make sure to arrange a place to stay before finalizing your tickets.
Visa Requirements for World Cup Visitors
Most foreign nationals wishing the attend the World Cup need visas for entering Qatar. Some key points:
– Citizens of 80+ countries get free 90 day tourist visas on arrival.
– Hayya cardholders can enter Qatar multiple times with free visas.
– Fans must apply for the Hayya card as part of the ticketing process.
– Standard visas can also be obtained through a Qatar embassy if needed.
– Passports must have 6 months validity beyond planned stay.
– Covid-19 vaccination and negative PCR test required.
So simply having a Hayya Card or World Cup match ticket will enable you to get an expedited visa on landing in Qatar. Just meet all the eligibility criteria.
Top 5 Tips for Booking World Cup Tickets
Here is a quick recap of the most important things fans need to do for getting FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 tickets:
1. Register on the FIFA ticketing portal as early as possible
Don’t delay your application and lose out at the first stage itself.
2. Be flexible on choosing match dates, stadiums and ticket types
Having a wide range of options maximizes your chances in allocation lottery.
3. Double check stadium locations before booking flights/hotels
Pick accommodation with easy access to where your games are happening.
4. Read all terms, conditions and rules related to ticketing
Avoid problems during purchase process or stadium entry by being informed.
5. Book Hayya card, flights and accommodation as soon as you get tickets
Have the rest of your trip logistics sorted to ensure you can attend your matches.
Planning ahead is the best approach to get World Cup tickets with minimum hassle and maximum excitement!
Conclusion
The FIFA World Cup is truly the greatest show on Earth for football fans. While the ticket booking journey requires some effort and patience, it’s well worth it for a once-in-a-lifetime live experience. This guide covers everything you need to know, from registration to purchase to game day. So read it carefully, set your plans proactively, and hopefully you’ll be chanting and cheering in the Qatar stadium stands soon! Let the football fiesta begin!