By Staff Reporter
Mexico City: With the opening match in Mexico City on June 11 now less than three weeks away, anticipation for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is reaching fever pitch, as the global football spectacle prepares to kick off across Mexico, Canada and the United States.
The expanded tournament will feature 48 nations, 104 matches and 16 host stadiums, marking the largest edition in FIFA history. Against this backdrop, FIFA has introduced the FIFA Fan ID — a new digital and physical fan engagement tool designed to enrich the matchday experience for ticket holders.
The free, collectible card will be issued to all supporters attending matches and can be collected at fan information points inside stadiums. More than a souvenir, the Fan ID unlocks a personalised digital platform offering exclusive content, rewards, and interactive features designed to deepen fan engagement throughout the tournament.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the initiative as a gateway to an enhanced fan journey, stating: “Your FIFA Fan ID is your door into an entire world of exclusive content, unforgettable experiences and memories that are yours to keep and share. Wear your FIFA Fan ID with pride.”
Once activated by tapping the card to a smartphone, fans will gain access to augmented-reality video messages, personalised merchandise options featuring official tournament imagery, FIFA Rewards, and stadium-specific information designed to optimise the matchday experience. New content will be added continuously throughout the competition.
Fans are encouraged to arrive at stadiums early, with official matchday entertainment beginning up to three hours before kick-off, including live activations, giveaways and immersive experiences exclusive to Fan ID holders.
Each supporter will be able to retain their Fan ID as a permanent memento and is encouraged to engage with it beyond matchdays to access fresh content and ongoing digital experiences.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is expected to attract more than six million spectators across the three host nations, with a global audience projected to exceed six billion viewers. Fans can purchase tickets exclusively via FIFA Tickets and hospitality packages through FIFA Hospitality, with FIFA urging supporters to avoid unofficial resale channels.
Designed as a flagship fan engagement innovation, the FIFA Fan ID aims to ensure that every supporter inside the stadium benefits from a fully immersive and personalised tournament experience.
