When does the Panini 2026 World Cup album come out? Official release set for May 1

After months of waiting, the Panini 2026 FIFA World Cup sticker album finally has a confirmed release date: May 1, 2026. The information was announced by Panini at a press event and confirmed by outlets including CNN Brasil, ESPN and Terra.

Launch timeline

• April 1, 2026 — Pre-orders open on the official site
• May 1, 2026 — Official release at newsstands and retailers
• May 2026 — Coca-Cola sticker distribution begins in the US and Canada
• June 11, 2026 — World Cup kicks off in the US, Mexico and Canada
• July 19, 2026 — World Cup final

Why a May release?

Traditionally, the official World Cup sticker album hits stores 4 to 6 weeks before the tournament starts. That's long enough for collectors to build momentum, start trading and set the mood for the Cup — but not so long that the window opens up for leaks and counterfeits.

How to get yours on launch day

The official publisher opened pre-orders on its own site and through major retailers. The advice is to be suspicious of deals priced well below the official tag or pre-orders on unknown sites, which can be scams. At newsstands, May 1 is expected to draw lines similar to 2022.

Don't want to wait?

While the physical release is still coming, the World Cup Stickers app will let you start your digital album as soon as the official content unlocks. Drop your email at the top of the page to be the first to know when the 2026 album goes live in the app.