The excitement for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is already buzzing, and for fans hoping to secure tickets, the competition is fierce. However, a new initiative by Visa may provide a glimmer of hope, potentially easing the ticket-buying process for eligible cardholders.
With matches spanning three countries—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—demands for tickets are expected to soar, and fans should prepare for long waits during online sales. To help alleviate this, Visa has announced an early access window for ticket purchases. This limited opportunity will allow eligible Visa cardholders to buy tickets before general sales commence, increasing their chances of snagging coveted seats in U.S. host cities.
Scheduled from February 12 through February 24, the early access window will operate on a first-come, first-served basis for available tickets. This differs from typical lotteries or request phases, emphasizing the importance of timing for interested buyers. The offer was encountered through Capital One Venture X Rewards and Capital One Venture X Business Card accounts, where the ticket access platform is currently available. While the initiative is linked to Capital One products, it remains open to all eligible Visa cardholders, depending on their account status.
It is essential to note that not every match or host city will be part of this early access program, so ticket availability will vary widely. Although this opportunity provides a way to bypass the usual public sales process, purchasing tickets will still require a credit card, meaning fans cannot redeem points or miles for World Cup tickets. However, travelers can use rewards for other aspects of their trip, helping them save money overall.
This move is part of Visa’s ongoing collaboration with FIFA, which often includes exclusive ticket allocations and payment privileges during major tournaments. As a valuable tip for fans, it’s wise to think ahead regarding travel logistics. With host cities likely to experience significant price increases as ticket holders finalize their plans, booking refundable flights and accommodations early can provide a financial cushion.
In the realm of major sporting events, the 2026 FIFA World Cup stands out as an exceptionally challenging occasion to secure tickets. The early access window for Visa cardholders opens a door to a streamlined purchasing experience, albeit without a guarantee of success. With limited inventory and rising prices on third-party platforms, this initiative may represent one of the best chances for fans to lock in their tickets ahead of the global frenzy. For soccer enthusiasts already planning their 2026 journey, this opportunity could be key in making that dream a reality.