FIFA volunteers: an opportunity for more than just volunteering

The world of soccer is a fascinating sphere, not only for the players and coaches, but also for the people who work behind the scenes to make every event a success. Among these people, FIFA volunteers hold a special place. Who are these volunteers? What contribution do they make to the success of major soccer events?

Profile of FIFA volunteers

In the shadow of soccer's superstars and far from the media spotlight, there is a group of people who make a significant contribution to the success of FIFA's global events. These people are FIFA volunteers. But who are they really? What motivates them to devote their time and energy to these global events?

Demographic profile: A diverse mix

The age of volunteers varies considerably. Although most are young, often students or young professionals, there are also a notable number of older volunteers. The minimum age requirement is 18.

What nationalities are they?

FIFA volunteers come from all over the world. From natives of the host country to soccer enthusiasts traveling from distant continents, diversity is truly the order of the day.

Motivations : More than a passion for soccer

Motivations are as varied as the volunteers themselves. Some are attracted by the proximity to players and matches, while others see it as an opportunity to acquire skills in event management, logistics or public relations.

Roles and responsibilities: From general to specific

• Spectator reception and orientation
• Media assistance
• Logistic support
• Supporting teams and players
• Information management and communication

What is the scope of their responsibilities?

Responsibility varies according to the role. Some may find themselves managing teams of volunteers, while others might be in charge of more specific tasks such as distributing meals or assisting journalists.

Experience and skills acquired: a springboard for the future

Most volunteers mention the development of skills such as teamwork, intercultural communication and stress management. What's more, the experience gained can often be an asset on their CVs, especially for those seeking a career in sports or events-related fields.

History of FIFA's World Cup volunteer programs

The 1994 World Cup in the United States
Initiated in 1994 during the World Cup in the USA, FIFA's volunteer program was still in its infancy. At that time, the number of volunteers was limited to a few hundred, but the positive impact they had on the event served as a catalyst for future editions.

The 2002 and 2006 World Cups
While the program was still in its infancy in 1994, it took on impressive proportions during the 2002 World Cup in South Korea and Japan, mobilizing over 20,000 volunteers. Four years later, in Germany, this number doubled, reaching the 40,000 volunteer mark.

The 2014 World Cup in Brazil
The 2014 World Cup in Brazil marked a new milestone with an extensive volunteer program involving over 150,000 participants. The success of this event was largely fueled by volunteers from all corners of the globe.

The 2018 World Cup in Russia
The 2018 edition in Russia continued this positive momentum, engaging over 170,000 volunteers. This edition was notable for incorporating modern technologies into volunteer management, including a sophisticated online assignment system.

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar
Visit World Cup in Qatar set a new record with over 200,000 volunteers from 209 different countries and territories. These volunteers served in a variety of areas, from welcoming spectators to assisting teams and players, to promoting soccer.

Future FIFA volunteer initiatives

FIFA has unveiled its plans for future world sporting events, in which volunteering will play a central role. Two major events are particularly noteworthy:

• The 2026 World Cupto be hosted jointly by Canada, the United States and Mexico. In 2018, FIFA announced that this would be the largest volunteer program ever, with a target of over 200,000 volunteers.
• The 2030 World Cupwhich will be held in Morocco, Spain and Portugal. The event is also expected to attract an impressive 150,000 volunteers.

What areas will offer opportunities for volunteers?

For World Cup 2026 and World Cup 2030, the wide range of roles available for volunteers will include:

• Fan reception and orientation
• Support for teams and players
• Soccer marketing and promotion
• Logistics and transport
• Safety management
• Communication and media
• Planning and running events and activities

Applications for the 2026 World Cup volunteer program will be open from 2024, and for the 2030 World Cup from 2028. In both cases, applicants must be aged 18 or over and have proven proficiency in English.

How do I sign up for the volunteer program?

If you wish to apply, you will need to create an account on the official FIFA website and complete a detailed application form. This form will ask you for various details of your professional experience, skills and availability. Once your application has been reviewed, you will be contacted for further steps, including training prior to your responsibilities.

What are the benefits of volunteering with FIFA?

Volunteering gives you a unique opportunity to :

• Playing a key role in the success of global events
• Meet and network with people from all over the world
• Acquire new skills and professional experience

FIFA also organizes other international sporting competitions that offer volunteer opportunities, such as the Women's World Cup, the FIFA Champions League, the FIFA Club World Cup and World Cup qualifying tournaments.

• The Women's World Cup FIFA organizes a Women's World Cup every four years. The next edition will take place in Australia and New Zealand in 2023. FIFA has announced that the volunteer program for this World Cup will include around 5,000 volunteers.
• The FIFA Champions League FIFA: FIFA organizes the FIFA Champions League, an annual men's club soccer competition. The next edition will take place in 2024. FIFA informed that the volunteer program for this competition would include approximately 2,000 volunteers.
• The FIFA Club World Cup FIFA: FIFA organizes the FIFA Club World Cup, an annual men's club soccer competition. The next edition will take place in 2024. FIFA has announced that the volunteer program for this competition will include around 1,000 volunteers.
• World Cup qualifying tournaments FIFA organizes qualifying tournaments for the Men's and Women's World Cups. These tournaments offer volunteer opportunities for people wishing to contribute to the promotion of soccer in their country.
• FIFA Foundation events The FIFA Foundation organizes events and programs to promote the development of soccer around the world. These events offer volunteer opportunities for people who wish to contribute to a positive impact on society.