Bank of America, FIFA and Vet Tix said on June 3, 2026, they will give away $2.25 million worth of free Fifa World Cup 2026™ tickets to veterans, current military members, first responders and their families. The program will make 4,547 tickets available across the tournament, with distribution beginning after the second match played in the United States.
That is the reason the announcement lands now: eligible veterans, service members and first responders can begin preparing for a ticket email from Vet Tix and 1st Tix, rather than waiting for a later phase of the tournament. The tickets will cover every stage from the group round to the final, and 250 will be reserved for U.S. Men’s National Team matches, giving the giveaway reach far beyond a single marquee game.
Michael A. Focareto III said the effort will help create unforgettable family memories for the communities the organizations serve. He said the partnership gives members and their families a chance to experience the energy, pride and global celebration surrounding the World Cup in all 11 U.S. host cities. Honorably discharged veterans and currently serving military members can register at vettix.org, while current and retired first responders can sign up at 1sttix.org, with eligibility verified through ID.me.
Bank of America is putting up $2 million for the purchase and distribution of the tickets, while Vet Tix is contributing another $250,000. Larry Di Rita said the bank has spent more than a century supporting the military community and that it feels privileged to help make tickets to the World Cup available to thousands more. Gianni Infantino said football is more than a game and tied the giveaway to the United States’ 250th anniversary during what FIFA is billing as a historic tournament.
What the announcement does not explain is how those 4,547 tickets will be sorted if the eligible pool is larger than the supply. The giveaway is free, but it is still limited, and the only clear next step is the email alert Vet Tix and 1st Tix members will receive once tickets open. Bank of America also said it will host a BofA Fan Experience on the National Mall during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Fan Zone, folding the ticket program into its celebration of America’s 250th birthday.
