FIFA opens doors for Ugandans to volunteer at 2026 World Cup

The Uganda Cranes may not make it to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. 

But you might. As a FIFA World Cup volunteer.  Seems impossible? Well, it is not. 

FIFA just opened applications for the 2026 World Cup volunteer programme, and over 65,000 volunteers will be needed across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico, and the USA for next year’s FIFA World Cup.

It will be the biggest volunteer drive in FIFA history, and all it takes to be a part of it is to be 18 years old and possess a good command of the English language. 

“Volunteers are the heart, soul and smile of FIFA tournaments,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino. “They get to show off their local pride, gain a behind-the-scenes view of the tournament and make memories and friendships that can last a lifetime, while supporting a historic event. We hope interested individuals will join us as we welcome the world to North America in 2026.”

Many Ugandans don't realize that international volunteering opportunities like this exist, let alone that they're accessible to them. FIFA isn't just looking for volunteers from North America; they want passionate football fans from everywhere, including right here in Uganda.

The upcoming World Cup is the biggest in football history, with 48 teams and millions of fans due at the June 11 to July 19, 2026 event. 

As a volunteer, you would have opportunities across 23 different areas, from welcoming international fans at airports to supporting teams at training sites. Volunteers will also be needed to assist with media operations at stadiums, help coordinate events at hotels, manage crowds at fan festivals, provide language assistance to visitors, and work behind the scenes at official venues. 

The big question

But for an ordinary Ugandan with a dream of working as a World Cup volunteer, the most important question is… just what does it take to qualify?

The eligibility requirements are straightforward. If you are an adult who can speak English and has the right documentation to travel to one of the host countries, you have all it takes to be a FIFA World Cup volunteer. 

That’s all, plus taking the actual step to send your application to FIFA via their website. 

The competition will certainly be fierce. But who knows? You just might get the nod.