By MES Dispatch Staff
The Briefing
- • Bank of America, FIFA, and nonprofit organization Vet Tix have jointly announced a program making 4,547 free 2026 FIFA World Cup match tickets — valued at approximately $2.25 million — available to first responders, veterans, and active-duty military personnel.
- • Eligible first responders include current and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, registered nurses, and 911 dispatchers; they may apply through the 1st Tix platform. Veterans and active-duty military may register through Vet Tix.
- • Ticket distribution will begin with the second World Cup match played on U.S. soil and continue through the tournament final; recipients will be notified by email when tickets for matches near them become available.
- • Bank of America will contribute $2 million toward ticket purchases and distribution, with Vet Tix providing an additional $250,000; 250 tickets will be specifically reserved for U.S. Men’s National Team matches in recognition of the nation’s 250th anniversary.
- • The program is limited to first responders and service members residing near the 11 U.S. host cities.
CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Bank of America, FIFA, and Vet Tix announced June 5, 2026, that 4,547 free tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup will be made available to first responders, veterans, and active-duty military personnel living near the tournament’s 11 U.S. host cities, through a joint initiative valued at approximately $2.25 million.
Eligible first responders — including current and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, EMS providers, registered nurses, and 911 dispatchers — may apply for tickets through the 1st Tix platform. Veterans and active-duty military members may register through Vet Tix. Ticket recipients will be notified by email as match tickets become available in their geographic area. Distribution is scheduled to begin with the second World Cup match played in the United States and will continue through the championship final.
Bank of America will contribute $2 million toward the purchase and distribution of the tickets, with Vet Tix supplementing the effort with an additional $250,000. As part of the initiative, 250 tickets have been designated specifically for U.S. Men’s National Team matches, offered in recognition of the country’s 250th anniversary in 2026. The program is framed by Bank of America as part of the organization’s broader recognition of that milestone.
Vet Tix Founder Michael A. Focareto III said the program represents an opportunity for eligible members and their families to be part of a major international event while also honoring those who serve their nation and communities. “The opportunity for our members and their families to experience the energy, pride, and global celebration surrounding the World Cup in all 11 cities across the United States represents far more than attending a sporting event,” Focareto said in a statement. “It’s an opportunity to create unforgettable family memories and honor those who continue to serve our nation and communities every day.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opens June 11 and runs through July 19, with 104 matches across host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.