When is the World Cup 2026? Key Dates and Information

Introduction

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be a landmark event in the history of football, as it will be the first World Cup to feature an expanded format with 48 teams. Scheduled to be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this tournament is highly anticipated, with millions of fans eagerly waiting to see their national teams compete on one of the biggest stages in sports.

Key Dates and Locations

The tournament is slated to take place from June 8 to July 8, 2026. The matches will occur across 16 cities in North America, with the final expected to be held in one of the premier stadiums in the United States. Major cities like Los Angeles, New York, and Dallas are among the 11 locations in the U.S., while Canada and Mexico will feature in the hosting duties with matches planned in cities like Toronto and Mexico City.

Expanding the Format

The 2026 edition marks a significant shift in FIFA’s approach to the World Cup format. The increase from 32 to 48 teams means a total of 80 matches will take place, providing teams from across the globe a greater chance to qualify and participate. This change aims to boost the tournament’s inclusiveness and global appeal. Qualification for the tournament will begin in 2024, with numerous confederations competing for spots.

Conclusion

As the excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, fans can look forward to a tournament that promises to be historic not only in its format but also in its celebration of football across North America. Organisers are optimistic that the expanded format will enhance the experience for fans, players, and countries participating. With a focus on international unity and sporting excellence, the 2026 World Cup could redefine the future of global football.