The 2026 World Cup will start on June 11 and conclude on July 19, with matches held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, featuring a total of 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 venues.
The 2026 World Cup is set to kick off on June 11 and wrap up with the final on July 19, hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This tournament will mark a historic expansion with 48 participating teams and 104 matches spread over 16 different venues, significantly surpassing previous editions. The schedule was unveiled in Washington after the draw, highlighting the unique format that this World Cup will adopt.
For the first time ever, the tournament will feature 12 groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will qualify for the knockout stage, which is a new addition to this World Cup format designed by FIFA to enhance the competition. The opening match will take place at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11, where Mexico will face off against South Africa, setting the stage for a memorable tournament.
The final match is slated to occur on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey, emphasizing the significance of this edition in the history of the World Cup. With an unprecedented format and the inclusion of more teams, the 2026 World Cup promises to be an exciting spectacle for football fans worldwide, reflecting a new era for the tournament that highlights growth and inclusivity in the sport.
