FIFA has opened the media accreditation process for the FIFA World Cup 2026, inviting media representatives and non-rights holders (NRHs) to apply ahead of the tournament to be hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States.
Under FIFA’s allocation system, Ghana has been granted a total of 12 accreditation slots — 10 for written press and two for photographers. The allocation applies strictly to print and digital journalists and photographers and does not cover broadcasters, including radio and television stations, nor broadcast and non-broadcast World Cup rights holders.
FIFA said journalists who are non-rights holders may apply independently through the FIFA Media Hub, while photographers are also encouraged to monitor the platform for any additional accreditation opportunities that may become available.
Key dates and eligibility
The accreditation window opened on 26 January 2026, and applications will close on 31 March 2026. Accreditation is open to written press (print and digital), photographers, international and national news agencies, radio and television non-rights holders on a limited basis, and FIFA Media Partners, who are rights holders.
FIFA Media Partnerships will directly handle the accreditation of rights-holding media organisations and will communicate separately with those partners on procedures and requirements.
Mandatory FIFA Media Hub
All applications must be submitted via the FIFA Media Hub, and applicants must have an approved personal account, which must not be shared. FIFA has also published a reference document on the platform outlining tips and guidelines for the accreditation process.
For written press and photographers, accreditation is managed through FIFA Member Associations. Each association receives a limited quota based on factors including previous World Cup participation and qualification status for the 2026 tournament. Member Associations are responsible for distributing accreditation control keys to media organisations and freelancers, who must contact their association to request access.
Non-rights holders and host countries
Radio and television non-rights holders will be able to apply for accreditation without a control key, although FIFA cautioned that the number of such accreditations will be very limited and that matchday access policies are yet to be finalised. Enquiries relating to NRH accreditation can be directed to FIFA via its designated contact channels.
Media representatives and freelancers working for organisations based in the host countries — Canada, Mexico and the United States — will follow a separate process coordinated directly by FIFA.
Media tickets and access
FIFA clarified that media accreditation does not automatically grant access to matches. Accreditation provides access to stadium media centres only. To gain matchday access — including entry to media or photo positions, press conferences or the mixed zone — accredited media must apply separately for media tickets for specific matches.
Media ticket applications will open shortly after the accreditation process begins, with requests to be submitted through the FIFA Media Hub or FIFA Media App. At this stage, tickets will be available only for group-stage matches, and media may request a maximum of one match per day.
Visas and security checks
All applicants will undergo mandatory security checks, with accreditation confirmations expected to be issued from March 2026. FIFA also advised media representatives to begin visa applications early, noting that the visa process is independent of accreditation approval.
FIFA said all official updates, procedures and frequently asked questions will be published on the FIFA Media Hub, urging media practitioners to check the platform regularly for the latest information.
