The FIFA World Cup 2026, set to be the largest in history with 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has officially opened applications for its volunteer programme. Described as a "once-in-a-generation" opportunity, FIFA aims to recruit approximately 65,000 volunteers to support the tournament, making it the biggest volunteer initiative in the organization’s history.
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association, commonly referred to by its acronym FIFA, functions as the international self-regulatory governing body for association football, beach soccer, and futsal. Established on May 21, 1904, FIFA was created to oversee international competitions among the national associations of Belgium, Denmark, France, Germany, the Netherlands, Spain (represented by Real Madrid CF), Sweden, and Switzerland.
FIFA is headquartered in Zurich, Switzerland, and currently comprises 211 national associations as members. Each national association is required to belong to one of the six regional confederations: the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), the Union of European Football Associations (UEFA), the Confederation of North, Central America, and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), and the South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL).
Here’s everything you need to know about how to register and become part of the FIFA World Cup 26 volunteer team for this historic event.
Why Volunteer for FIFA World Cup 2026?
Volunteers are hailed as the “heart, soul, and smile” of FIFA tournaments, playing a critical role in delivering a seamless and memorable experience for millions of fans.
Volunteers will work across 23 functional areas, including fan services, media operations, hospitality, logistics, transportation, and security, at stadiums, training sites, airports, hotels, and fan zones. Beyond operational support, volunteers will act as ambassadors for their host cities, showcasing local culture and pride to a global audience.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the unique experience: “Volunteers 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.”
Who Can Apply?
FIFA welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds, with no prior volunteering experience required. To be eligible, you must meet the following criteria.
- Age: Be at least 18 years old by the time of application (May 2026 for some sources).
- Availability: Commit to at least 8–9 shifts between June 11 and July 19, 2026.
- Eligibility: Comply with the host country’s entry requirements (United States, Canada, or Mexico).
- Language: Proficiency in English is required. In Mexico, Spanish is desirable; in Canada, French is an asset. Additional languages are a plus.
- Training and Background Check: Agree to attend mandatory training sessions and pass a background review (process varies for Mexico).
Skills like teamwork, communication, cultural awareness, or hospitality experience are advantageous but not mandatory.
How to Apply for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Volunteer
The application process for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Volunteer Programme is straightforward and accessible online. Follow these steps.
- Visit the Official FIFA Volunteer Portal: fifaworldcup.com/volunteers to start your application.
- Register an Account: Create a profile on the FIFA Volunteer Platform.
- Complete the Application Form: Provide details about your skills, availability, and preferred host city and role. You can select from 16 host cities, including Dallas, Boston, Philadelphia, Arlington, and Mexico City.
- Submit and Await Next Steps: Applications opened on August 11, 2025, and will remain open through September 2025.
After submitting, expect to participate in an online assessment.
Key Dates and Timeline for FIFA World Cup 2026 Volunteer Registration
The volunteer journey follows a structured timeline.
- August–September 2025: Application and online assessment period.
- October 2025–January 2026: Volunteer Team Tryouts and interviews (virtual or in-person).
- December 2025–March 2026: Role offers and background checks.
- March–June 2026: Training sessions and shift confirmations.
- May–June 2026: Uniform distribution and accreditation.
- June 11–July 19, 2026: Tournament operations, with volunteers working their assigned shifts.
Volunteer Roles and Responsibilities
Volunteers will support a wide range of operations, including:
- Fan Services: Assisting spectators and providing information.
- Media Operations: Supporting journalists and broadcast teams.
- Hospitality: Welcoming VIPs and managing hospitality zones.
- Logistics and Transportation: Coordinating team arrivals and venue operations.
- Security and Accreditation: Assisting with crowd management and credential checks.
- Fan Zone Management: Supporting public viewing areas and festival sites.
Benefits of Volunteering
While volunteering is unpaid, FIFA offers several perks:
- Official FIFA World Cup 2026 Adidas uniform (including shoes, hat, shirt, and backpack).
- Meals and refreshments during shifts.
- Local transportation coverage in host cities.
- Official volunteer certificate.
- Access to exclusive volunteer events and networking opportunities.
- A once-in-a-lifetime experience with behind-the-scenes access and lasting memories.
What Volunteers Are Saying
Craig Collins, who volunteered at the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA and the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 in Atlanta, shared his excitement: “I’m excited to apply for the 2026 programme and hope to show off my community to the world once more.” His experience underscores the personal and communal impact of volunteering.
Tips for FIFA World Cup 2026 Volunteer Applicants
- Act Early: With 65,000 spots, competition is high, especially in host cities like Dallas (expecting several thousand volunteers) and Philadelphia (3,000 volunteers).
- Highlight Language Skills: Multilingual candidates, especially those fluent in Spanish, French, or Portuguese, may have an edge in customer-facing roles.
- Stay Updated: Follow FIFA’s official channels and local organizing committees on social media for updates. For example, Dallas (@FWC26Dallas) and Mexico City (@MexicoCity26) have been actively posting about the programme.
A Historic Opportunity
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Volunteer Programme offers a unique chance to contribute to a global event, connect with people from around the world, and represent your community. With matches kicking off on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City, and host cities like Arlington’s AT&T Stadium hosting nine matches, the stage is set for an unforgettable tournament.
Don’t miss your chance to be part of history. Apply now at fifaworldcup.com/volunteers and join the FIFA Volunteer Community to make the 2026 World Cup a tournament to remember!
NOTE: Accommodation is not provided, and volunteers are responsible for their own expenses, though public transport within host cities may be covered. For the latest updates, check FIFA’s official website or follow @FIFAWorldCup on X.