On Monday, FIFA launched the volunteer application process for the FIFA World Cup 26™, set to be the largest volunteer program in the organization’s history, with an estimated 65,000 participants needed across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, including right here in North Texas.
The tournament, featuring an expanded 48-team format, will span 16 host cities over six weeks, starting June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Nine matches will be hosted at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, including a Semi-Final.
The FIFA World Cup 26™ Volunteer Community will support operations at stadiums, training sites, airports, hotels, and other venues, covering 23 functional areas.
“Volunteers are the heart, soul and smile of FIFA tournaments,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said. “They get to show off their local pride, gain a behind-the-scenes view of the tournament and make memories and friendships that can last a lifetime, while supporting a historic event.”
No prior volunteering experience is required, but applicants must be at least 18 years old, eligible to volunteer in the host country, and have a good command of English. Proficiency in Spanish is desirable in Mexico, while French is an asset in Canada. Additional language skills are a plus.
Craig Collins, a volunteer at the 1994 FIFA World Cup USA™ and the FIFA Club World Cup 2025™ in Atlanta, became the one-millionth member of the FIFA Volunteer Community in April 2025.
“I’m so proud to be part of this moment – not just for FIFA, but for my city,” Collins said. “I’m excited to apply for the 2026 volunteer programme and hope to show off my community to the world once more.”
Volunteers will receive an official FIFA World Cup 26™ uniform, exclusive reward items, meals during shifts, a volunteer certificate, and skills-based learning opportunities. Successful applicants will attend Volunteer Team Tryouts starting in October 2025, with training beginning in March 2026.
Volunteers must commit to eight shifts, attend pre-event training, and pass a background check.
Applications are open at fifaworldcup.com/volunteers. The program welcomes individuals from all backgrounds, uniting them through a shared passion for soccer and community engagement.