Soccer fans across the United States are moving quickly after the launch of chase sapphire preferred world cup tickets, an exclusive early-access opportunity that allows eligible cardholders to purchase FIFA World Cup 2026 seats ahead of broader public sales. With matches scheduled in major U.S. cities next summer, this limited presale window gives qualified Chase Sapphire customers a direct path to one of the most in-demand sporting events in the world.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will run from June 12 through July 18, bringing global attention to North America. The United States will host the majority of matches, creating intense competition for tickets. Early access through Chase Sapphire could make the difference between attending in person and watching from home.
Below is everything U.S. fans need to know about eligibility, timelines, purchase limits, host cities, and how to maximize the opportunity.
Table of Contents
What the Early Access Program Includes
Chase Sapphire cardholders are receiving a designated ticket window that allows them to purchase World Cup match seats before additional general-sale phases begin. The presale opened February 10, 2026, at 11 a.m. local time and runs through February 24, 2026, or until inventory sells out.
This access applies to matches taking place in U.S. host cities during the 2026 tournament. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis, which means availability can change rapidly depending on demand.
Eligible cards include:
- Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card
- Chase Sapphire Reserve®
- Chase Sapphire Reserve for Business℠
- J.P. Morgan Reserve card
While premium travel cards often provide exclusive experiences, it stands out that the Chase Sapphire Preferred card—known for its accessible annual fee—also qualifies for this benefit.
Why This Presale Matters for U.S. Soccer Fans
The 2026 FIFA World Cup represents a landmark sporting event for American audiences. It will be the first time the expanded 48-team tournament format debuts, increasing the total number of matches and raising excitement nationwide.
Hosting duties are shared across North America, but the United States will stage the majority of games. That includes group-stage fixtures, knockout rounds, and several high-profile matchups that are expected to draw massive crowds.
Historically, World Cup ticket demand has exceeded supply by a wide margin. Even in early sales phases, millions of requests often compete for a limited number of seats. An exclusive cardholder window reduces uncertainty and gives qualified buyers a more controlled purchasing experience.
How to Buy Tickets Step by Step
Cardholders must complete several specific steps to access the ticket inventory. Simply owning the card does not reserve seats automatically.
1. Confirm Eligibility
Ensure you hold one of the qualifying Chase Sapphire cards listed above. Only eligible cards can unlock the presale link.
2. Create or Log Into a FIFA Ticketing Account
Fans must have an active account on the official FIFA ticketing platform. Purchases cannot be completed without one.
3. Access the Chase Experiences Portal
Eligible cardholders log into the designated Chase event platform to begin the process.
4. Verify Card Details
You will enter your qualifying card information to confirm eligibility.
5. Receive a Unique Access Link
After verification, you will receive a unique link directing you to FIFA’s official ticketing site.
6. Select Matches and Complete Checkout
Choose available matches and seating categories, then finalize the purchase within the official system.
Because tickets are released in limited quantities, timing matters. Popular matches may sell out within minutes.
Ticket Limits and Purchase Rules
To ensure fair access, purchase limits apply:
- Up to four tickets per match
- A cumulative cap on total tickets per household for the tournament
These limits help distribute availability among eligible cardholders rather than allowing bulk purchases for resale.
Buyers should carefully review match dates, stadium locations, and travel logistics before finalizing purchases. Ticket sales are typically non-refundable unless specific tournament policies apply.
U.S. Host Cities for the 2026 Tournament
The United States will host matches in 11 cities, each featuring world-class stadiums prepared for international competition:
- Los Angeles, CA
- San Francisco Bay Area, CA
- Seattle, WA
- Dallas, TX
- Houston, TX
- Kansas City, MO
- Atlanta, GA
- Miami, FL
- Boston, MA
- Philadelphia, PA
- New York/New Jersey
Each venue will stage multiple matches across the tournament schedule. Cities such as New York/New Jersey and Los Angeles are expected to host some of the highest-profile games, drawing international visitors and substantial media coverage.
For American fans, the geographic spread creates flexibility. Supporters may attend games locally or plan travel to experience matches in different regions.
Travel Planning Starts Now
Securing tickets is only part of the preparation. With millions expected to travel for the World Cup, flights and hotel rooms in host cities are projected to fill quickly.
Summer 2026 already represents peak travel season. Add the World Cup, and demand will surge dramatically. Fans who obtain tickets during this presale may want to secure accommodations early to manage costs and availability.
Consider:
- Booking refundable hotel rates
- Comparing airfare across nearby airports
- Monitoring transportation options near stadiums
- Reviewing local event calendars for overlapping festivals or conventions
Planning ahead can significantly improve the overall tournament experience.
The Expanded 48-Team Format
The 2026 edition introduces a new structure with 48 participating national teams, up from 32 in previous tournaments. This expansion increases the total number of matches and extends the group-stage schedule.
More teams mean more games and broader global representation. For fans, that translates into additional opportunities to watch international matchups that may not have appeared in prior tournaments.
However, expanded scheduling does not eliminate demand pressure. High-profile games, including potential appearances by the U.S. Men’s National Team, remain among the most sought-after tickets.
Cardholder Benefits Beyond Points
Travel rewards cards often focus on earning multipliers, statement credits, and airport lounge access. Exclusive event access represents a growing category of lifestyle benefits.
Access to chase sapphire preferred world cup tickets illustrates how financial products increasingly intersect with entertainment and global events. Cardholders are not only earning points on travel purchases—they are unlocking access to experiences that would otherwise require navigating competitive public sales.
For many customers, that experiential advantage enhances the overall value of holding the card.
What to Expect on Sale Day
If you plan to purchase tickets during the presale window, preparation is critical.
Log In Early
Technical delays can happen when high traffic hits ticketing systems. Signing in before the sale time helps reduce risk.
Double-Check Payment Details
Ensure your eligible card remains active and in good standing.
Prioritize Matches
Have a ranked list of preferred games in case your first choice sells out.
Complete Checkout Quickly
Inventory updates in real time. Delays can result in losing selected seats.
Fans targeting marquee matchups should be especially prompt, as those games typically experience the fastest sellouts.
Economic Impact and National Spotlight
The 2026 World Cup is projected to generate billions in economic activity across host cities. Hotels, restaurants, airlines, and local businesses are preparing for a surge in international tourism.
Beyond economic gains, the tournament places U.S. stadiums on a global stage. Broadcast coverage will reach hundreds of millions of viewers worldwide.
For American supporters, attending matches on home soil offers a rare opportunity. The United States has not hosted a men’s World Cup since 1994, making this event historically significant.
What Happens After the Presale Ends
The exclusive cardholder window closes February 24, 2026, or earlier if ticket inventory runs out.
After that date, additional sales phases may occur depending on remaining availability. However, seats for highly anticipated matches could already be gone.
Fans who secure tickets during this early-access period gain both peace of mind and more time to coordinate travel plans.
A Defining Summer for American Soccer
With matches set across the country and global attention focused on U.S. venues, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be one of the most significant sporting events in American history.
From group-stage excitement to knockout-round drama, the tournament will deliver weeks of high-stakes competition and unforgettable stadium atmospheres.
For eligible cardholders, early ticket access creates a direct path to becoming part of that experience.
Are you planning to attend a 2026 match in your city? Share which game you hope to see and join the conversation as the countdown to kickoff continues.
