About the 2026 FIFA World Cup
The 2026 FIFA World Cup — officially named FIFA World Cup 26 — is the 23rd edition of the tournament and the first to be jointly hosted by three nations. The United States, Canada, and Mexico share 16 host cities across the continent, bringing the world’s most watched sporting event back to North America for the first time since the USA hosted in 1994.
The opening match kicks off on June 11, 2026 at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, one of football’s most iconic venues. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
For the first time in World Cup history, 48 national teams will compete — a 50% increase from the 32-team format used since France 1998. The expanded group stage consists of 12 groups of 4 teams, with 24 teams advancing to a new round of 32 knockout stage before the traditional round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and final.
The total number of matches rises from 64 to 104, spread across a 39-day tournament.
Host Cities and Venues
United States (11 cities): New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco Bay Area, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Boston, Houston, Kansas City, Philadelphia
Mexico (3 cities): Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey
Canada (2 cities): Toronto, Vancouver
How Often Is the World Cup Held?
The FIFA World Cup takes place every four years. The cycle has run uninterrupted since 1950, following the two editions cancelled during World War II (1942 and 1946). The next editions after 2026 are scheduled for 2030 (centenary tournament, multiple continents) and 2034 (Saudi Arabia).
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the 2026 FIFA World Cup start?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup opens on June 11, 2026, with the first match at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The tournament runs through July 19, 2026, when the final takes place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
Which countries are hosting the 2026 World Cup?
Three countries share hosting duties for the first time in World Cup history: the United States (11 cities), Mexico (3 cities), and Canada (2 cities). The USA last hosted in 1994; Mexico co-hosts for a record third time after 1970 and 1986; Canada hosts a men's World Cup for the first time.
How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?
48 teams — up from 32 at every tournament since 1998. The expanded format features 12 groups of 4 teams each, with the top two from each group and the eight best third-place finishers (24 teams total) advancing to a round of 32.
How often is the FIFA World Cup held?
Every four years. The first tournament was held in Uruguay in 1930. The only gaps were 1942 and 1946, cancelled due to World War II. After 2026 the next edition is scheduled for 2030, marking the tournament's 100th anniversary.
What happens in the countdown if the 2026 World Cup has already ended?
The calculator automatically advances four years and counts down to the next expected edition. The opening date shifts to the same calendar date in the next cycle — a useful approximation until official dates for future tournaments are announced.
Where will the 2026 World Cup final be played?
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey (Greater New York area), on July 19, 2026. The stadium holds over 82,000 spectators and hosted the Super Bowl in 2014.