Veterans, First Responders to Receive Free FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets Through New National Program
As excitement continues to build for the FIFA World Cup 2026™, thousands of veterans, active-duty military personnel, first responders, and their families across the United States will have the opportunity to experience the world’s biggest sporting event free of charge.
Bank of America, the Official Bank of FIFA World Cup 2026™, has announced a major partnership with FIFA and the nonprofit organization Vet Tix that will provide approximately $2.25 million in complimentary World Cup tickets to those who have served their communities and country. The initiative is part of the broader celebration of America’s 250th anniversary, which coincides with the tournament next summer.
The program will make more than 4,500 match tickets available across all 11 U.S. host cities, including Miami, where South Florida is preparing to welcome fans from around the globe for one of the most anticipated sporting events in history.
Eligible recipients will have access to tickets for every stage of the tournament, from the group phase through the championship final. Additionally, 250 tickets have been reserved specifically for U.S. Men’s National Team matches as a tribute to the nation’s semiquincentennial celebration.
For many military families and first responders, attending a FIFA World Cup match can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Organizers say the initiative is designed not only to recognize service and sacrifice but also to create meaningful opportunities for families to come together and enjoy a historic global event.
Michael A. Focareto III, founder and CEO of Vet Tix and a U.S. Navy veteran, described the program as an opportunity to create lasting memories while honoring those who continue to serve their communities every day.
To participate, honorably discharged veterans and currently serving military members can register for free through Vet Tix. Current and retired first responders—including law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, registered nurses, and 911 dispatchers—can sign up through 1st Tix. Eligibility for both programs is verified securely through ID.me.
Once tickets become available, registered members will receive notifications with instructions on how to claim seats for matches in their local host city.
The announcement reflects a long-standing commitment by Bank of America to support military personnel, veterans, and first responders. Beyond the ticket initiative, the bank will also host a large-scale fan experience in Washington, D.C., as part of the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone, featuring live match viewing, cultural activities, youth programming, food, music, and interactive exhibits.
As Miami prepares to take center stage during FIFA World Cup 2026™, this initiative ensures that many of the nation’s heroes will have a chance to be part of the celebration and witness history firsthand.
