FIFA makes history as its global Volunteer Community surpasses two million members, following a record-breaking surge in applications for the FIFA World Cup 2026. More than one million people from around the world have applied for 65,000 volunteer roles, demonstrating the growing excitement and global participation ahead of next year’s biggest sporting event. FIFA President …
FIFA World Cup 2026: 2 Million Apply for 65,000 Volunteer Roles
FIFA makes history as its global Volunteer Community surpasses two million members, following a record-breaking surge in applications for the FIFA World Cup 2026. More than one million people from around the world have applied for 65,000 volunteer roles, demonstrating the growing excitement and global participation ahead of next year’s biggest sporting event.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the achievement, describing the Volunteer Community as “the most diverse in the world.” He expressed deep appreciation to volunteers of all ages and backgrounds who contribute their time and passion to football.
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“When I go to tournaments and meet you all, I am always greeted by an incredible range of nationalities, ages, genders, backgrounds, and professions,” Infantino said. “We have volunteers from 18 to 92 years old; students starting their journeys to retirees passing on their experience. Everybody has a story to tell.”
Global and Diverse Volunteer Base
The FIFA Volunteer Community now represents 226 countries and territories, reflecting football’s unmatched global reach. North America leads participation with just over 40% of registered members, followed closely by Africa with 38%.
The United States tops the chart with over 400,000 volunteers, while co-host nation Mexico follows with 210,000. Morocco, set to host the FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup and co-host the 2030 FIFA World Cup, contributes around 200,000 volunteers. Other leading nations include Canada, Algeria, and Kenya.
Youthful Energy Meets Experience
Demographically, nearly 60% of volunteers are aged 18–29, while around 5% fall between 51 and 92, showing that football continues to unite generations. Collectively, volunteers have contributed over two million hours to FIFA tournaments, by supporting operations, engaging fans, and creating unforgettable experiences.
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FIFA’s volunteer programme has now been activated at 25 global events, including the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022, FIFA Women’s World Cup Australia & New Zealand 2023, and the FIFA Club World Cup held earlier this year.
“Beat as One”: Volunteers at the Heart of FIFA Events
Under the slogan “Beat as One”, FIFA volunteers play vital roles such as greeting fans and VIPs, assisting media teams, carrying flags, managing accreditation, and supporting match operations.
“You are often the first faces fans, players, and officials see on their FIFA World Cup journey,” Infantino added. “None of this would be possible without you. We are proud to work alongside you and beat as one.”
The milestone reinforces FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity, diversity, and global unity through football. As preparations continue for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, the spirit of volunteerism remains at the heart of what makes the world’s game truly global.
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