There’s a new way to watch the 2026 World Cup Games for free – but there’s a catch.
FIFA is recruiting volunteers, and if you’re selected, you could find yourself enjoying matches in the United States, Mexico, and Canada next summer at no cost!
This will be the largest volunteer program ever attempted by FIFA. A mind-boggling 65,000 volunteers across the 16 cities that will host the expanded 48-team format over 39 days beginning June 11, 2026. In addition to having volunteers at stadiums, volunteers will also provide support at training sites, airports, and hotels.
“Volunteers are the heart, soul, and smile of FIFA tournaments,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino in FIFA’s official statement calling for volunteers. “They get to show off their local pride, gain a behind-the-scenes view of the tournament, and make memories and friendships that can last a lifetime, while supporting a historic event. We hope interested individuals will join us as we welcome the world to North America in 2026.”
Who is qualified to volunteer?
FIFA welcomes volunteers of all backgrounds and abilities, united by a shared love of football and a belief in bringing people together from every walk of life. Whether you’re a student or a retiree, a first-time volunteer or a seasoned pro, the FIFA World Cup 26 Volunteer Community will be a vibrant and diverse team, connected by a passion for the game, for volunteering, and for making a difference.
Requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old at the time of application
- Be legally eligible to volunteer in the host country
- Have a good command of English
- For Mexico: English and Spanish are preferred
- For Canada: French is considered an asset
- Knowledge of additional languages is a plus
Interested individuals can now apply at fifaworldcup.com/volunteers.
When will the volunteer work begin?
Volunteers whose applications are successful will be invited to participate in the Volunteer Team Tryouts, set to begin in October 2025. Those selected will then take part in training starting in March 2026, ensuring they are fully prepared for their roles. The excitement will culminate when the FIFA World Cup 26 officially kicks off on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City.
Online rumblings
While some FIFA fans are jumping at the opportunity to volunteer at the World Cup, many online have criticized FIFA for requesting volunteers while earning such large sums of money from the tournament. Forbes reports that FIFA earned a record-breaking $7.5 billion in revenue from the Qatar World Cup in 2022.
You can read FIFA’s full statement and call for volunteers here.