More than 40 organizations will distribute FIFA World Cup Seattle tickets to young people and their caregivers.
SEATTLE — Hundreds of teens and their caregivers will attend fifa world cup The game is free to watch thanks to the City of Seattle Youth Access Program.
Seattle leaders announced the plan Tuesday, saying more than 40 organizations will distribute more than 1,400 free tickets.
“For many young people, I know this is going to be a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” Seattle Mayor Katie Wilson said at a news conference.
Peter Tomozawa, CEO of the local organizing committee for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Seattle, said the program is the most comprehensive youth access program for the entire World Cup.
The program also includes food stamps, and 25 percent of participants will receive transportation based on their location. King County Metro said it will provide transportation to and from the game.
Tomoze said the city government and the local organizing committee did not receive tickets and they had to raise funds to pay for them. Corporate partners including Microsoft, Amazon, Boeing and Alaska Airlines help support the program.
The event also highlighted a number of partner organizations helping to distribute tickets, including the Somali Health Authority, which runs a youth football club. Community representatives said football was an important gateway for young people away from bad behaviour, and praised investment that continues to prioritize the sport.
Najma Osman, executive director of the Somali Health Commission, said free World Cup tickets are more than just a fun experience for children.
“This shows that our young people belong on the world stage,” Osman said. “They belong to the fans, they belong to the athletes, they belong to our future leaders.”
