The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the 23rd edition of the tournament, will be the first to feature 48 teams, expanded from 32. The competition will be hosted across three North American countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with matches played in 16 cities. A total of 104 matches are scheduled over five weeks, from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the Round of 32. This format replaces the previous 32-team structure used from 1998 to 2022.
Key host cities include New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium), Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium), Mexico City (Estadio Azteca), and Toronto (BMO Field). The Estadio Azteca will become the first stadium to host three World Cups, having previously done so in 1970 and 1986. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
The official match schedule and PDF program were released by FIFA in February 2024, with kickoff times and venues confirmed. The tournament will also feature the first-ever World Cup match played in Canada, with Vancouver and Toronto hosting group stage games.
