The anticipation surrounding the 2026 FIFA World Cup is building as the tournament draws closer. The competition, which will kick off on June 11, 2026, at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, will be a landmark event. This will be the first World Cup to feature 48 teams and will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
As the world’s best footballers prepare to showcase their talents, FIFA has launched a major volunteer recruitment campaign. The organization is seeking approximately 65,000 passionate football enthusiasts to contribute behind the scenes and be a part of this special event.
To apply to volunteer for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, individuals must first register on the official FIFA Volunteer Community website. This registration is a mandatory prerequisite for submitting an application.
Following registration, applicants are required to complete a comprehensive application form, indicating their preferred host city and highlighting their relevant skills and availability. They must also pass a brief online test to demonstrate their enthusiasm for the tournament and explain why they would be an ideal volunteer. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to a face-to-face or group interview in their preferred city, followed by a background check. Successful applicants will be assigned roles in areas such as stadium management, media coordination, fan services, or logistics, with training provided before the tournament.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application (with no upper age limit). They must also be available to work a minimum of eight shifts during the tournament (some of which will be prior to the official start). A good understanding of English is essential. Fluency in Spanish is welcomed for volunteer roles in Mexico, and proficiency in Canadian French is an advantage for volunteers in Canada. Applicants must also be legally eligible to volunteer in the host country.
While FIFA will not cover travel, accommodation, or visa expenses, previous volunteer experience is not required. This presents a unique opportunity for individuals to gain experience on the football stage.
The FIFA World Cup is more than just a competition; it is a celebration of football’s global spirit. Volunteers are essential to the event’s success, ensuring a smooth experience for fans, players, and media. For football fans, this is an opportunity to participate in the action, not as a spectator, but as a supporter of one of the most-watched sporting events in history.