FIFA Releases Schedule for 2026 World Cup Featuring 48 Teams
Executive Summary
Key insights and market outlook
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams divided into 12 groups, with matches taking place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico starting June 11, 2026. The tournament's first match will be held at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, while the final will take place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford on July 19, 2026. This edition will be the largest in World Cup history.
Deep Dive Analysis
FIFA Unveils Schedule for Expanded 2026 World Cup
Historic Tournament Details
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially been scheduled, marking a significant milestone in football history. This tournament will feature a record-breaking 48 participating teams, divided into 12 groups of four teams each. The matches will be hosted across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Key Match Dates and Venues
The tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026, with the first match taking place at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The final will be held on July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. This will be the largest World Cup tournament to date, with an expanded format that includes more teams than ever before.
Group Stage Schedule
The group stage matches will be played from June 11 to June 28, 2026. The detailed schedule includes:
- Group A matches starting June 11
- Subsequent group matches continuing through June 12-28
Tournament Structure
The competition format includes:
- Group Stage: 12 groups of 4 teams each
- Top 2 teams from each group advance
- Some top third-placed teams qualify for knockout stage
Significance of Expansion
This expanded format represents a major change in World Cup structure, allowing more national teams to participate in the tournament. The increased participation is expected to boost global interest and viewership.