FIFA have explained why they are unable to welcome every fan to this summer’s World Cup after closing their random ticket selection draw.
The expanded 48-team tournament begins on June 11 and will be hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
Ticketing has sparked widespread controversy, with prices drawing heavy criticism from supporters. England’s opening group match against Croatia was priced between £198 and £523.
Fans hoping to attend the final at MetLife Stadium in New York City faced prices ranging from £3,129 to £6,489.
FIFA also came under fire for using a random draw system, with fans required to apply online during set windows before tickets were allocated.
Following backlash, FIFA released a limited number of reduced-price tickets costing £45 per match, including for the final on July 19.
Despite this, FIFA say demand remained overwhelming, with more than half a billion ticket requests submitted overall.
The governing body confirmed that, aside from host nations the United States, Mexico and Canada, the highest number of applications came from Germany, England, Brazil, Spain, Portugal, Argentina and Colombia.
FIFA stated that fan interest averaged around 15 million ticket requests per day during the 33-day application window.
Colombia vs Portugal in Miami on June 27 proved the most requested fixture, with Mexico vs South Korea in Guadalajara and the final in New York also among the most popular matches.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino admitted the organisation could not meet global demand. “Our only regret is that we cannot welcome every fan inside the stadiums,” he said.
Infantino added that FIFA is working to provide alternative fan experiences beyond the stadiums, both in person and online, so more supporters can still take part.
Fans who were successful in the draw will be notified by email from February 5 and automatically charged, with remaining tickets released in a last-minute sales phase.
FIFA also warned that match tickets do not guarantee entry to host countries, amid ongoing US immigration and visa restrictions that could affect some fans.