How to Get 2010 World Cup Tickets

Ticketing procedures explained - applying & buying

After the FIFA 2010 World Cup Final Draw in Cape Town, the third phase of World Cup ticket sales began. This is a crucial stage of sales, as the majority of tickets are expected to be snapped up by the time this phase closes on 22 January 2010. But in case this whole ticketing process isn’t clear, let us explain:

Application Procedure

Tickets can be applied for in two ways: non-South Africans apply by submitting a form through www.fifa.com/2010 . South African residents apply by visiting a branch of FNB Bank and making a physical application there. This must be done by 22 January 2010.

FIFA will hold a “random selection” draw on 1 February 2010. Then applicants will be notified within 10 days of the draw, with payment being taken for successful applications.

Why do we have the random draw?

The reason for the random draw process is simple – FIFA wants to give every fan the equal chance of getting tickets to the most popular games. For that reason a random draw is the fairest way to allocate the tickets.

For games which are not over-subscribed by 22 January 2010 there will be no random draw. Tickets will be allocated to all applicants.

Handy hints

Demand for tickets at this stage of the sales process is expected to be very high. For that reason FIFA has a couple of tips for fans to ensure that chances of getting tickets are as high as possible:

1. For high profile matches in the group stages and matches in the knockout phase there will be a greater chance of obtaining tickets by applying for Category 1 or 2 tickets. Whilst higher priced, these tickets are likely to provide fans with a better viewing experience.

2. There is a higher chance of being successful in applying for tickets to lower profile games. Don’t forget, the FIFA World Cup™ is a one-off experience and the atmosphere at every game will be unforgettable.

Further ticket sales phases

1. Any tickets remaining after the sales phase ending on 22 January 2010 will be sold on a first-come first-served basis between 9 February and 7 April 2010.

2. This will then be followed by a “last minute” sales phase between 15 April and 11 July 2010. However, very few tickets are expected to be available at this stage.

Submit your applications to have a chance of saying: “I was there”.

Info sourced from FIFA.com – 18 December 2009