FIFA 2026 will be the first World Cup with 48 teams. Canada, Mexico, and the USA co-host the event, with 16 cities hosting the matches. The final game happens on 19 July 2026 in New York/New Jersey. FIFA needs around 65,000 volunteers, making it the largest volunteer programme for a FIFA event to date. If you want to help fans, guide visitors, or be part of the energy, keep reading to see if you qualify!
Who Can Apply to Volunteer at FIFA 2026?
Anyone 18 or older may apply to volunteer at FIFA 2026. You must be eligible to volunteer in your chosen host country. You must have a good command of English. In Mexico, speaking Spanish is helpful. In Canada, French is a bonus. FIFA welcomes volunteers from all backgrounds.
Also, no upper age limit stops you from helping. You need team spirit and a friendly attitude. You must join the FIFA Volunteer Community to begin. Once you join, you can fill out the application. This step is your start.
Do I Need Past Volunteer Experience?
No prior experience matters. FIFA 2026 values your passion more than your history. As long as you bring enthusiasm, you can contribute. Many first-time volunteers will join. It’s all about your energy and willingness to learn.
Even students and retirees may apply. FIFA wants a diverse volunteer team. You just need to be proactive and friendly. Your attitude matters more than any resume.
How Many Volunteers Are Needed?
FIFA expects around 65,000 volunteers for this World Cup. That makes it the largest volunteer programme in FIFA history. Volunteers will work across 16 host cities. You’ll be part of something huge and global.
The event runs for six weeks—from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Volunteers support matches across Canada, Mexico, and the USA. You could work at stadiums, fan zones, or transport hubs. These cities are;
Canada: Toronto, Vancouver.
Mexico: Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey.
The United States: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle.
What Volunteer Roles Are There?
FIFA 2026 volunteers may work in 23 areas. Roles include access management, accommodation, accreditation, anti-doping, arrivals and departures, brand protection, broadcast services, ceremonies, competition management, event transport, fan operations, guest operations, host city ambassador, partner rights delivery, partnership management, team services, security, media operations, ticketing, volunteer management, uniforms, and much more.
You might assist with sustainability and human rights, hospitality, or language services. There’s a role to match many talents. FIFA wants many people to join and help make the event shine.
How Do I Apply to Volunteer at FIFA 2026?
First, join the FIFA Volunteer Community. Then complete the application form and online assessment. After that, FIFA may invite you to Tryouts and training.
The Tryouts help FIFA match you with a role. Training happens before the tournament. Your journey includes evaluating your fit and preparing you well for your volunteer role.
When Will Applications and Training Take Place?
Applications open in mid-August to September 2025. The volunteer team tryouts run from October 2025 to January 2026. This will enable you to know and connect with fellow volunteers as well as meet the volunteer management team. Training takes place from March to May 2026. Then you will step into the heart of the action in June and July 2026.
Therefore, if you apply early, you get better chances. Roles are assigned by March 2026. Then you’ll train with your team ahead of the kickoff on June 11.
How Many Shifts Do Volunteers Work?
Volunteers must complete a minimum of eight shifts. Shifts last six to eight hours. You may work up to nine shifts.
They may start before FIFA 2026 begins on June 11 and run through July 19. You must be ready and available full-time during that window.
What Benefits Do Volunteers Receive?
Volunteers get a uniform from Adidas. They receive meals and drinks during shifts. They also get volunteer certificates and recognition gifts.
They gain new friends, fun stories, and skills like communication and teamwork. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience in addition to skills-based learning opportunities.
Are Background Checks and Eligibility Required?
Yes, you must pass a background check. You must have valid entry rights to your host country. You also must complete tryouts and training.
FIFA needs to ensure safety, fair play, and smooth operations. You must follow all eligibility rules to volunteer. Indeed, there is a lot of prep that needs to be done before stepping onto the FIFA World Cup pitch as a volunteer.
Does FIFA Cover Travel or Accommodation?
No, FIFA does not cover travel or lodging costs. You arrange your own. But FIFA provides local transport info during the event.
You do get meals during shifts and a uniform, though. Those ready to volunteer bring their own logistics but get support on-site.
Conclusion
FIFA 2026 brings together 48 teams and shares the event across Canada, Mexico, and the USA. The final plays on 19 July 2026 in New York New Jersey. Volunteers—the heartbeat of the event—are central to its success. Around 65,000 people will volunteer, creating the largest volunteer programme for a FIFA event.
You can join this epic journey by applying through the FIFA Volunteer Community. You’ll help fans, make friends from around the world, and be part of history. So grab this chance—volunteer for FIFA 2026 and help make the tournament unforgettable!
