This began well before the final draw was even made. Fans applied for "Random Selection Draws" without knowing exactly which teams would play in which cities.
After the final groups were drawn, fans could apply for specific matchups. This phase was also split into a random draw followed by a first-come, first-served window.
For the 2018 tournament, a ticket alone wasn't enough to get you into the stadium. The Russian authorities required every fan to apply for a .
Remaining tickets were sold in real-time right up until the day of the final on July 15. The Secret Weapon: The FAN ID
It served as a multi-entry visa for foreign fans and provided free public transport on matchdays.
Buying tickets was broken down into distinct phases to manage the massive global demand.
