Overview
- FIFA restarted the random‑selection ticket registration on Dec. 11 at 11 a.m. ET, running through Jan. 13, 2026, with purchases tied to a FIFA ID and 3D Secure; the official Marketplace stays paused until after Dec. 15.
- Texas positions itself as a likely base for teams with two group games in Dallas or Houston—Argentina, Japan, the Netherlands and Portugal—while AT&T Stadium prepares natural‑grass installation starting in February.
- Mexico City announced inclusive events tied to the tournament, including an April 2026 short‑stature Mexico vs. USA match and a national football tournament for people with visual impairment, supported by new adapted pitches.
- Liga MX owners approved one‑off adjustments for Clausura 2026—scrapping the Play‑In, allowing up to nine foreign players for qualified clubs, and releasing national‑team call‑ups from April 30—so the league finishes before the World Cup.
- Iran’s federation warned that U.S. visas could be denied to some players and fans for group games in Los Angeles and Seattle, citing recent precedents and security vetting, while authorities have not announced any resolution.