Football officials have revealed the significant demand for the three matches of the group-stage of FIFA World Cup 2026, security plans for which were outlined this week18:20, 26 May 2026England players are so excited about playing in the World Cup they have bought up to a staggering 1000 tickets for “family and friends” at every game. Football bosses have revealed the huge take-up for the three group matches. Chief Constable Mark Roberts, the National Police Chiefs Council Lead for football, disclosed the numbers as he discussed policing policies for the tournament. Three Lions fans were split on such high ticket sales to players, staff and management. Some were delighted they had such faith in Thomas Tuchel’s side they were buying so many tickets.‌But others were angry they were purchasing so many extra tickets that aren’t available to ordinary fans saying it was “madness”‌‌READ MORE: Man City tipped to go trophyless next season as Enzo Maresca set to replace Pep GuardiolaREAD MORE: Former Champions League star dies aged 49 as heartbreaking statement releasedMr Roberts said: “So for the first game against Croatia in terms of numbers - there are up to 1000 friends and family with the FA. “We’ve got 3,315 members of the England Supporters Travel Club. In terms of ticket sales our current understanding is that there is a total of 7,618 buying tickets online purporting to be England supporters.“That breaks down as 4,169 from the UK, 2,800 from the States, 36 from Mexicos, 209 from Canada and 401 from elsewhere.” At England v Ghana he said: “For that game we’ve got 3,553 official travel members going. The split of other people buying the tickets is 10,171 plus 1000 friends and family.”‌For England v Panama, in New York he said: “We are expecting 3,971 official members and total ticket sales we’re looking at 10,721 plus 1000 friends and family.”Cambridge United fan Dave Ryan, 55, a teacher said: “I completely understand that England players and FA staff should have access to tickets for games so their family and friends can watch them play - but 1000 tickets for every game. “That’s just madness and not very fair.‌“England fans are struggling to get tickets and so many are going to those with FA connections. There’s only 26 players in the squad so 1000 tickets is awful lot to go to ‘family and friends’.”But Wolverhampton Wanders supporter David Bamford, 63, said: “It’s a lot of tickets but it’s great so many have been bought. England players and staff are backing the lads. It’s good to see.”Article continues belowTickets for the England v Croatia group game bought directly from the FIFA are as follows. Category 1 are £520, Category 2 £370 Category 3 £195 and Category 4 £45. The size of the England party which will include players, management, coaches, analysts, press officers, dieticians, masseuses and chefs is believed to be between 90 and 100 people The party has been able to choose and purchase tickets from the above categories