The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will not just be another sporting tournament—it will be the largest World Cup in history. For the first time, the tournament will feature 48 national teams, played across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Beyond the players and the fans, the true heartbeat of the event will be the 65,000 volunteers working behind the scenes to make everything run smoothly
If you’ve ever dreamed of being part of the world’s biggest sporting stage, this is your chance. Volunteering at the FIFA World Cup is more than just lending a helping hand—it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to connect with cultures, meet people from around the globe, and experience football magic up close.
Why Volunteer at the FIFA World Cup?
Volunteering has been a tradition at FIFA tournaments for decades. From South Africa in 2010 to Qatar in 2022, volunteers have consistently brought passion, hospitality, and energy to the event. They are the first faces fans see at the airport, the friendly guides in the fan zones, and the helping hands at stadium gates.
At the 2026 edition, volunteers will once again be the soul of the tournament. Imagine greeting fans from dozens of countries, helping teams settle into their host cities, or guiding visitors who may be in North America for the first time. Every shift gives you the chance to make someone’s World Cup experience unforgettable.
Key Details About the Volunteer Program
- Scale: Over 65,000 volunteers will be recruited, making this the largest volunteer program in FIFA history.
- Diversity of roles: Volunteers will be needed across 23 different areas, including hospitality, ticketing, language services, fan engagement, media assistance, transport, and stadium logistics.
- Host cities: From Los Angeles to Toronto to Mexico City, each host city will run its own volunteer program, giving applicants a chance to serve in different ways depending on location.
Some cities, such as Houston and Kansas City, have already reported massive interest—with thousands of people applying within the first week. This shows just how competitive and exciting the program will be.
Requirements to Volunteer
The program is open to people from all walks of life, but there are a few key requirements:
- Age: You must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. There’s no upper age limit—whether you’re a student, retiree, or mid-career professional, you’re welcome.
- Language skills: English is the main working language, but speaking Spanish (for Mexico) and French (for Canada) will be a strong advantage.
- Eligibility: Volunteers must be legally allowed to stay in the host country during the tournament. This may involve arranging visas or travel permits.
- Commitment: Volunteers are expected to complete a minimum of eight shifts, each lasting 6–8 hours. Shifts will be spread across pre-tournament days and match days.
Timeline of the Volunteer Journey
- Applications: Open now through FIFA’s volunteer community platform.
- Screening & Interviews: Late 2025 into early 2026. Interviews may be in person or online, depending on location.
- Training: Begins in March 2026. Volunteers will be trained in customer service, teamwork, and role-specific duties.
- Uniform & Accreditation: Official gear and passes will be distributed closer to the tournament.
- Tournament Dates: June 11 to July 19, 2026. Volunteers will play a crucial role before, during, and after these dates.
Benefits of Volunteering
While volunteers won’t be paid, the rewards go far beyond money:
- Official FIFA uniform: A stylish outfit designed especially for the 2026 edition, which volunteers can keep as a memento.
- Meals and refreshments: Provided during shifts to keep you energized.
- Certificate of recognition: Proof of your contribution to one of the world’s largest events.
- Networking opportunities: Meet people from every continent—fellow volunteers, fans, and even football professionals.
- Life experience: From problem-solving under pressure to working in diverse teams, the skills you gain will stay with you long after the tournament ends.
- Unforgettable memories: Being inside the stadiums, greeting international fans, and contributing to the world’s biggest celebration of sport is an experience like no other.
Examples of Volunteer Roles
Volunteers won’t all be doing the same tasks. Here are just a few examples of what you could be doing:
- Fan Welcome Teams: Greeting fans at airports and train stations, helping them find transportation to host cities.
- Stadium Operations: Assisting with crowd management, guiding spectators to their seats, or helping disabled fans with accessibility needs.
- Hospitality Support: Working in VIP areas, media zones, or team hotels to ensure smooth operations.
- Language Services: Acting as interpreters for international guests or teams.
- Cultural Ambassadors: Sharing local traditions, food, and stories with fans to make their visit more meaningful.
Every role is important, and every volunteer becomes a face of the tournament.
The Sonic ID – A Symbol of Unity
Adding a creative touch, FIFA has introduced a “Sonic ID” for volunteers—a sound logo representing energy and team spirit. Composed by a member of the volunteer community, this anthem will be played across volunteer hubs and events. It’s a reminder that volunteers are not just workers but cultural ambassadors and part of the show.
Tips for a Strong Application
- Apply early – Competition is fierce, and spots may fill up quickly.
- Highlight language skills – Being multilingual makes you a valuable asset.
- Show commitment – Emphasize flexibility and reliability in your application.
- Be open-minded – You may be assigned to unexpected roles, but each one is part of the big picture.
- Emphasize teamwork – FIFA is looking for people who thrive in collaborative, high-energy environments.
Final Thoughts
The FIFA World Cup 2026™ is more than just football—it’s a festival of culture, passion, and unity. By volunteering, you won’t just watch history unfold—you’ll help shape it. Whether you’re a lifelong football fan or simply someone who loves connecting with people, this program is your chance to shine. So, if you’ve ever dreamed of being part of the world’s biggest sporting event, now is the time to step forward. Put on the uniform, join thousands of others, and be part of the heartbeat of the FIFA World Cup 2026™.