The 2026 FIFA World Cup is gearing up to be a truly historic event, bringing significant changes and exciting developments to the world of football.
For the first time, the tournament will be hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This collaborative effort not only sets a precedent but also reflects the sport’s growing global appeal.
With an expanded format and more teams, the 2026 World Cup will be the largest in history.
Three Nations, One Goal
The tournament will mark the first World Cup in North America since 1994.
Matches will be held in 16 cities across the three host nations:
- United States: The bulk of the games, including the final, will be played in major cities such as New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium), Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium), Miami, Dallas, and San Francisco.
- Canada: Canadian fans will enjoy matches in Toronto and Vancouver, making this the country’s first time hosting a men’s World Cup.
- Mexico: Football fans will gather in Mexico City, Monterrey, and Guadalajara. The legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will become the first stadium to host matches in three different World Cups (1970, 1986, and 2026).
An Expanded Format for a Growing Sport
The 2026 World Cup introduces a new structure with 48 teams, up from the previous 32. Teams will compete in 16 groups of three, with the top two from each group moving on to the knockout rounds.
This change increases the total number of matches to 80 games, offering more opportunities for fans to watch their favorite teams and discover new ones. The expanded format reflects FIFA’s goal to make the tournament more inclusive and showcase talent from around the world.
The allocation of spots by continental confederations has been established as follows:
- AFC (Asia): Eight direct slots plus one inter-confederation play-off slot
- CAF (Africa): Nine direct slots plus one inter-confederation play-off slot
- Concacaf (North, Central America, and the Caribbean): Six direct slots plus two inter-confederation play-off slots
- CONMEBOL (South America): Six direct slots plus one inter-confederation play-off slot
- OFC (Oceania): One direct slot plus one inter-confederation play-off slot
- UEFA (Europe): 16 direct slots
Dates and Duration
The tournament will take place in June and July 2026, with detailed match schedules to be announced later. The extended number of games ensures an action-packed month of football excitement.
Focus on Sustainability
A key focus for the 2026 World Cup is sustainability. FIFA and the host nations are committed to reducing the tournament’s environmental impact. From eco-friendly stadiums to initiatives aimed at minimizing carbon emissions, the event will prioritize long-term benefits for the host cities and their communities.