When does the 2026 FIFA World Cup start?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to start on June 11, 2026, and will conclude with the final on July 19, 2026.
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FIFA WORLD CUP2026
THE GREATEST SHOW ON EARTH
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SecsOpening Kickoff · June 11, 2026 · Estadio Azteca · Mexico
48 TEAMS · 6 CONF.
104 MATCHES · GROUP + KO
$1B PRIZE FUND
FEATURED MATCHES TODAY
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19:00 · Estadio Azteca
🇲🇽MEX
VSRSA🇿🇦
21:00 · SoFi Stadium
🇧🇷BRA
VSMAR🇲🇦
16:00 · MetLife Stadium
🇫🇷FRA
VSSEN🇸🇳
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Ultimate Guide: 2026 Tournament Structure
The 2026 FIFA World Cup represents the largest expansion in the tournament's history, scaling from 32 to 48 national teams. Hosted across 16 cities in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, this global event introduces a modernized format designed to maximize excitement and competitive balance.
| Feature | 2026 Format | Previous Format (2022) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Teams | 48 Teams | 32 Teams |
| Total Matches | 104 Matches | 64 Matches |
| Group Stage | 12 groups of 4 teams | 8 groups of 4 teams |
| Knockout Stage | Starts at Round of 32 | Starts at Round of 16 |
| Host Nations | USA, Canada, Mexico (16 Cities) | Qatar (5 Cities) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the 2026 World Cup being hosted?
The 2026 tournament will be jointly hosted by three North American countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This is the first time the World Cup will be hosted by three nations.
How many teams will play in the 2026 World Cup?
For the first time in history, the 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams, an expansion from the traditional 32-team format used since 1998.
What is the new format for the 2026 World Cup?
The 48 teams will be divided into 12 groups of 4. The top two teams from each group, along with the 8 best third-placed teams, will advance to a new Round of 32 knockout stage.