Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WILL THERE BE VOLUNTEERS AT THE 2026 WORLD CUP?
The 2026 World Cup will not only be a celebration of goals, jerseys, and passion, but also a unique opportunity for thousands of people who dream of experiencing the tournament from the inside. Yes, we're talking about volunteers. That army of enthusiasts who, with a smile, help everything run like clockwork. The United States, Mexico, and Canada will welcome thousands of them to the biggest sporting event on the planet. In this article, we'll tell you how many will be needed, how you can become one, what they do, and why volunteering at a World Cup is a life-changing experience.
The Key Role of World Cup Volunteers
A World Cup doesn't run itself. Behind the scenes, thousands of people work to make everything flow smoothly: from the moment you step off the plane until you find your seat in the stadium. And that's where the volunteers come in, the silent heart of the tournament.
What exactly do they do?
Volunteers don't score goals, but they enable others to do so. They help in areas such as accreditation, customer service, transportation, security, translation, technical operations, and logistics. Everything involved in making an event of this magnitude look impeccable to the viewer.
Welcoming fans at airports and stations
Providing support in stadiums and fan zones
Assisting delegations, press, and sponsors
Collaborating on ceremonies and special events
Helping with translations and multicultural guidance
Fun fact: More than 17,000 volunteers participated in the 2018 World Cup in Russia. In Qatar 2022, more than 20,000 were selected from over 400,000 applicants. It is expected that by 2026, that number will exceed 30,000. Volunteers receive prior training, an official uniform, access to appreciation events, and, above all, an experience that will be etched in their memories and on their CVs forever.
How to apply and what the requirements are
Can you imagine being part of the World Cup from the inside? Well, it's not impossible. In fact, FIFA and the organizing committees will open official registration for thousands of spots in different host cities.
Requirements, languages, and good vibes
To be a volunteer, you don't need to be a soccer expert, but you do need enthusiasm, commitment, and a positive attitude. Although the exact requirements may vary by country and role, there are some general rules you should know from the start.
Minimum age: 18 years old by June 2026
Availability during the tournament weeks
Speak English or the local language (English, Spanish, or French)
Proactive attitude, tolerance, and social skills
Some roles will require technical knowledge or experience
The selection process usually includes online interviews, skills tests, and even group activities. In some cases, such as in Qatar, there were voluntary training camps to rehearse real-life situations. Fun fact: at the 2006 World Cup in Germany, the youngest volunteer was 18 and the oldest was 74! The passion for football knows no age. Volunteers don't receive a salary, but they do receive benefits such as meals during their service, local transportation, an official certificate, and a global network that can open doors to employment.
The Impact and Legacy of Volunteering
Beyond helping, volunteering at a World Cup transforms lives. Thousands of personal stories confirm this: lifelong friendships, new career paths, and the satisfaction of being part of something gigantic.
Volunteering as a Cultural Bridge
One of the most important legacies is the cultural bridge that is created.
People from all over the world work together, live together, learn from their differences, and discover that football unites more than it divides.
Friendship networks that last for years
Job opportunities in sports and tourism
Unforgettable teamwork experiences
Personal pride in being part of history
Inspiration for new social and community projects
Fun fact: After the 2010 South Africa World Cup, more than 70% of the volunteers surveyed said their lives had changed for the better after the tournament. Many even started careers in sports management. In 2026, with three host countries and diverse cultures, the volunteer program will be more inclusive and enriching than ever. A unique opportunity for those who love football and want to make a difference.
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