With the 2026 FIFA World Cup rapidly approaching, excitement is growing. The tournament is set to commence on June 11, 2026, at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. This edition of the World Cup is significant as it will feature 48 teams and be hosted jointly by Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
As the world’s top football players prepare to compete, FIFA has initiated a large-scale volunteer recruitment drive, looking for approximately 65,000 individuals to assist in various behind-the-scenes roles.
To apply for the FIFA World Cup 2026 volunteer program, the first step is to register on the official FIFA Volunteer Community website. Registration is required before submitting an application.
After registration, prospective volunteers are required to complete an application form, indicating their preferred host city and highlighting their skills and availability. They must also successfully complete a short online assessment, demonstrating their enthusiasm and suitability for the role. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to an interview, either in person or in a group setting, in the city of their preference, followed by a background check. Successful volunteers will be assigned to departments such as stadium management, media coordination, fan services, or logistics, and will receive appropriate training before the tournament.
To be eligible, applicants must be at least 18 years old at the time of application. There is no upper age limit. Applicants must also be available to work a minimum of eight shifts throughout the tournament, including some before the official start date. A good grasp of English is necessary. Additional language skills, such as Spanish for roles in Mexico and Canadian French for roles in Canada, are considered beneficial. Applicants must also be legally authorized to volunteer in the host country.
While FIFA will not cover expenses such as travel, accommodation, or visas, previous volunteer experience is not a prerequisite. This is a unique opportunity for those looking to be part of a major sporting event.
The FIFA World Cup is a celebration of football, and volunteers play a vital role. They contribute to the smooth operation of the event and enhance the experience for fans, players, and the media. For football fans, this is an exceptional chance to be actively involved in one of the most-watched sporting events globally.