World Cup 2026: Complete guide to teams, schedule, venues and predictions
Everything you need to know about the 2026 FIFA World Cup — host cities across three countries, qualified teams, group predictions and who is favourite to lift the trophy.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the biggest in history. For the first time, 48 nations will compete across three host countries — the United States, Canada and Mexico — making it the most geographically expansive tournament ever staged. If you want to follow the action from kick-off to the final, this is your complete guide.
When and where is the 2026 World Cup?
The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Matches will be played across 16 cities: 11 in the United States (including New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, Miami, Atlanta, San Francisco and Seattle), two in Mexico (Mexico City and Guadalajara) and three in Canada (Toronto, Vancouver and the initial host of Ciudad Juárez, which was replaced). The final takes place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey — the same stadium that hosted Super Bowl XLVIII.
How many teams and how does the format work?
The expanded field of 48 teams means the group stage now has 12 groups of four. The top two teams from each group plus the eight best third-placed sides advance to a round of 32 — a new knockout stage that replaces the traditional last 16 as the first elimination round. From that point, it is standard single-elimination through to the final.
The extra eight teams give smaller nations more opportunity, but it also means the early group games can involve significant mismatches. Tournament specialists expect the quarter-finals and beyond to deliver the quality of football the event is known for.
Who has qualified?
All three host nations qualify automatically. The remaining 45 slots were distributed through confederations: UEFA (Europe) received 16 places, CONMEBOL (South America) gets 6, CAF (Africa) 9, AFC (Asia) 8, CONCACAF (North/Central America, Caribbean) 6, and OFC (Oceania) 1, with two playoff slots available.
Notable qualifiers include the traditional heavyweights: Brazil, Argentina, France, Spain, Germany, England, Portugal, Italy, the Netherlands, and Belgium. Several surprise qualifiers from Africa and Asia add unpredictability to the draw.
Notable absences from previous tournaments have largely been corrected. The format change means fewer heartbreaking qualification failures.
Group stage predictions
Group A (containing hosts USA): The United States will be motivated by home advantage and a strong generation of domestic league talent developed through MLS and European exports. Uruguay and Mexico provide serious competition, but USA should advance comfortably.
The Euros-style power groups: Europe's allocation of 16 teams means several groups contain two historically strong sides. Expect France vs England, Spain vs Germany style clashes that in previous tournaments would only occur at the knockouts.
South American block: Brazil arrives under enormous pressure after recent tournament disappointments. Argentina, defending world champions, have the experience but may miss the peak Messi years. Uruguay and Colombia are genuine dark horses.
African representation: Morocco's run to the semi-finals in 2022 inspired an entire continent. Nine African nations means at least two or three will advance from groups to cause upsets in the knockout rounds.
Knockout stage predictions
Quarter-finals most likely to deliver drama: Any Brazil vs Argentina meeting would be the most-watched match in television history. A France vs Spain tie at this stage would be equally compelling.
Dark horse candidates: Morocco, Uruguay, Japan and the Netherlands all have the tactical organization and key players to reach the semi-finals. Japan in particular have built an impressive generation of European-based players.
The final four: France, Brazil, Spain and either England or Argentina look like the pre-tournament favourites for the final four places. But in a 48-team tournament with more knockout rounds, variance increases.
Who will win the 2026 World Cup?
France enter as the bookmakers' favourite. A squad depth that is arguably the best in world football, a settled tactical system, and the motivation to win a third world title. Kylian Mbappé, now established at Real Madrid, is at the peak of his powers.
Brazil carry the weight of expectation. A nation that hasn't won since 2002 is desperate for another title. The squad is talented but questions about consistency and the quality of management remain.
Spain under their current generation represent perhaps the most technically complete team. Their positional play style has produced two Euros wins and they arrive with a young, hungry squad.
England carry the perpetual weight of expectation but now have the squad to match. The team that reached the Euro 2024 final has matured, and a home-adjacent World Cup on American soil suits their physical style.
Where to watch the 2026 World Cup
Broadcasting rights differ by country, but the tournament will be available across all major sports broadcasters. Streaming services will also carry significant portions of the action. Check your local listings for confirmation of which games are available in your region.
Key dates to remember
- **June 11:** Opening match at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca
- **June 12–26:** Group stage
- **June 27–July 4:** Round of 32
- **July 5–8:** Round of 16
- **July 9–12:** Quarter-finals
- **July 14–15:** Semi-finals
- **July 18:** Third-place match
- **July 19:** Final at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
How to get tickets
FIFA ticket sales operate through the official FIFA ticketing portal (fifa.com/tickets). Given the 48-team format, ticket availability is higher than previous tournaments, though final and semi-final matches will sell out rapidly. Hospitality packages through official FIFA channels provide another route for fans seeking guaranteed access.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many games are played in total?** With 48 teams and a round of 32, the total match count rises to 104 games — significantly more than the 64-game format of previous tournaments.
Can I follow games across all three countries?** Yes, but travel between USA, Mexico and Canada requires visa planning. Many fans base themselves in one country and follow a team's specific group through to potential knockout games.
Which stadium has the highest capacity?** AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas (Dallas), with a capacity of approximately 100,000 including standing areas, is expected to host some of the largest crowds.
Is this the last 48-team World Cup?** FIFA have confirmed the 48-team format continues beyond 2026. The 2030 centenary World Cup is planned as a global event with matches across multiple continents.
Marco Renati is a football tactics analyst with over a decade of experience covering European football for international publications.
