In a major tribute to those who serve, Bank of America, the Veteran Tickets Foundation (Vet Tix), and FIFA have launched a joint $2.25 million partnership to distribute thousands of free FIFA World Cup 2026™ tickets to military veterans, active-duty service members, first responders, and their families.
The multi-million-dollar initiative is timed to coincide with the broader celebrations surrounding America’s 250th birthday, providing access to matches spanning all stages of the tournament across all 11 U.S. host cities.
Bank of America is anchoring the project with a $2 million donation to Vet Tix, which is being combined with an additional $250,000 contribution from the veteran-led non-profit organization. In total, the funding will secure 4,547 high-value tournament tickets, allowing eligible families to experience the historic matches at no out-of-pocket cost.
“The opportunity for our members and their families to experience the energy, pride, and global celebration surrounding the World Cup represents far more than attending a sporting event,” Vet Tix Founder and CEO Michael Focareto III, a U.S. Navy veteran, said. “It’s an opportunity to create unforgettable family memories and honor those who continue to serve our nation and communities every day.”
The complimentary tickets will become available starting with the second match played on American soil and will extend through every round of the tournament, including the high-stakes knockout rounds, semi-finals, and the World Cup Final.
A Historic Milestone: In honor of the nation’s Semiquincentennial (250th anniversary), organizers have strictly reserved 250 dedicated tickets specifically for matches featuring the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT).
To ensure the tickets reach their intended recipients, the distribution will be safely managed through established online verification networks. Ticket opportunities are divided into two primary military and civic branches:
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Veterans and Active Military: Honorably discharged veterans and currently active service members from all military branches can register for free directly through the Vet Tix platform.
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First Responders: Active and retired law enforcement officers, firefighters, emergency medical services (EMS) personnel, registered nurses, and 911 dispatchers can register through the dedicated 1st Tix portal.
Both registration portals utilize secure, government-grade credential verification via ID.me. Once tournament tickets are formally released to the platforms, verified members living in or near the respective U.S. host cities will receive immediate email alerts to claim their seats.
“Our state is home to a deeply dedicated community of veterans, active-duty service members, and first responders,” Alberto Garofalo, president of Bank of America New Jersey said. “Working with Vet Tix and FIFA allows us to show our gratitude in a tangible way, by ensuring these families are in the stands enjoying these matches.”
The corporate-civic partnership will also extend directly to the nation’s capital. In tandem with the ticket giveaway, Bank of America will host its standalone “BofA Fan Experience” inside the official FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fan Zone on the National Mall in Washington, D.C.
Organized alongside FIFA and the Freedom 250 organization, the massive public festival will run the entire length of the tournament, from June 11 through July 19. The free, family-friendly celebration features live giant-screen match broadcasts, food, live music, and interactive cultural showcases between 3rd and 4th Streets near the U.S. Capitol.
The Bank of America pavilion will highlight historic World Cup artifacts alongside interactive demonstrations of “Soccer at Schools.” Run through the Soccer Forward Foundation and U.S. Soccer, the initiative aims to establish comprehensive soccer programming and infrastructure across every American school by 2030.
“At FIFA, we believe football is far more than just a game – it is a powerful force for good,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino, said. “We are proud to work alongside Bank of America and Vet Tix to help ensure veterans and military families across the country can be part of the greatest global sports tournament ever.”
