World Cup 2026 draw Mexico time: scams, rights and everything FIFA won’t tell you legally
The 2026 World Cup draw is one of the most anticipated events of the year. Millions of fans in Mexico want to know what time it takes place — but very few know the legal risks, the consumer rights, and the types of fraud that appear every time FIFA opens ticket sales, raffles, or promotional giveaways.
This guide explains your legal rights, what FIFA and authorized platforms must comply with by law, and how to protect yourself from scams that are already increasing before the World Cup begins.
What time is the 2026 World Cup draw in Mexico?
The official draw will take place at:
📌 Time in Mexico (CDMX): 17:00 horas (5:00 PM)
📌 Time in the U.S. (local host cities): varies by state
FIFA is legally obligated to communicate any changes in date or schedule in a timely, transparent manner — and Mexican consumers are protected by various laws if this information is misleading or inaccurate.
Legal obligation of FIFA to provide clear information
Under Mexican law, any organization that sells or promotes tickets, raffles, or promotional draws must provide:
- Clear and accurate schedules
- Transparent ticket availability
- Final prices (including service fees)
- Terms and conditions of participation
If any of this is hidden, misleading or false, the consumer may file a complaint with PROFECO, which can sanction the company or force them to compensate affected users.
Your consumer rights in Mexico when buying World Cup tickets
Buying a ticket for the 2026 World Cup creates a binding commercial relationship.
You have rights under the Ley Federal de Protección al Consumidor (LFPC).
Mandatory refunds
You can demand a refund if:
- The ticket is cancelled
- The event date changes and you cannot attend
- You were charged incorrectly
- The sale process had technical failures
Platforms like Ticketmaster, BoletosMX and FIFA’s official ticketing partners must comply with Mexican consumer law.
Price transparency
It is illegal to:
- Increase prices at the last second
- Add hidden fees
- Show “fake” availability
These are considered abusive practices.
The most common scams (and how to act legally)
Before every World Cup, Mexico experiences a spike in:
- Fake tickets
- Fraudulent raffles
- Phishing websites
- QR code cloning
- Fake “priority access” emails
- Scammers pretending to be FIFA representatives
If you are a victim, you can file:
- A complaint with PROFECO
- A criminal complaint for fraud under the Código Penal
- A digital crime report if your data was stolen
You may also recover your money through civil action.
Illegal resale: legal consequences and how to defend yourself
Unauthorized resale is illegal in Mexico.
Scammers often sell:
- Fake screenshots
- Invalid QR codes
- Cancelled tickets
- Tickets sold multiple times
If this happens:
✔ You can demand reimbursement
✔ You can sue for damages
✔ You can file a fraud complaint
✔ You can request platform data to identify the seller
What happens if you are denied entry to the stadium?
You may be refused entry for:
- Problems with the ticket system
- Duplicate QR codes
- Incorrect ticket assignment
- Platform errors
Legally, you have the right to:
- Receive a refund
- Receive a replacement ticket (if possible)
- Request compensation (in certain cases)
Organizers are responsible for technological and administrative errors.
When to contact PROFECO
PROFECO can help you if:
- You bought a valid ticket but can’t enter
- A platform refuses to issue a refund
- Prices were altered unfairly
- The draw’s information was manipulated
PROFECO can fine, force refunds, and sanction companies.
When to contact a lawyer
You should consult an attorney if:
- You lost a significant amount of money
- You want to sue for damages
- Your personal data was compromised
- You were a victim of digital fraud
- You need to file a civil or criminal action
Conclusion
The 2026 World Cup is an unforgettable event — but also a massive opportunity for scammers and companies that don’t always follow Mexican law. Knowing your rights allows you to protect your money, avoid fraud, and demand compensation if platforms or organizers fail to comply with their obligations.
If you need legal advice, AbogadoMex.mx can connect you with a lawyer in your state.