48 nations will compete at a World Cup for the first time
Next year’s FIFA World Cup is set to be the most ambitious and inclusive tournament the world has ever seen. For the first time in its 96-year history, the World Cup will be hosted by not one, not two, but three countries:
Those countries are the United States, Canada and Mexico. And it’s not just the first time – this edition will feature 48 nations, expanding from the traditional 32.
From host cities to qualifying teams, and excitement around the world – here’s your complete guide to the 2026 World Cup.
Three host nations: the world’s most powerful nation, the United States, and neighbour’s Canada and Mexico
The 2026 World Cup marks an unprecedented moment in football – three nations are coming together to celebrate the beautiful game. Here’s how the hosting duties will be divided:
- The United States will host 78 matches, including the semi-finals and final.
- Mexico will host 13 games, including the opening match at Mexico City’s famed Estadio Azteca.
- Canada will also host 13 games, bringing World Cup action to the cities of Toronto and Vancouver.
The THREE-NATION setup is not only a way to make history meaningful again – it’s also practical. It has given the tournament a unique atmosphere in one of North America’s most advanced stadiums and passionate football markets.
⚽️Full List of Three Host Nation Cities
🇺🇸 United States
- Atlanta
- Boston
- Dallas
- Houston
- Kansas City
- Los Angeles
- Miami
- New York/New Jersey
- Philadelphia
- San Francisco Bay Area
- Seattle
🇲🇽 Mexico
- Mexico City
- Guadalajara
- Monterrey
🇨🇦 Canada
⚽️ Vancouver
⚽️Toronto
Each nation’s city offers a unique character, culture and stadium infrastructure – all of which will be unforgettable memories for the world.
🏆 Expanded format: 48 nations and national drama, with plenty of national anthems.
The 2026 World Cup will feature:
48 national teams
12 groups of four for support and service
The top two teams from each group, plus the 8 best third-place teams, will advance to the knockout stages.
That means more nations making their World Cup debuts, less experienced teams, and more football to enjoy – up from the usual 64 and for a total of 104 matches!
When does the 2026 World Cup start?
Opening match: June 11, 2026 — Estadio Azteca vs Mexico City 🇲🇽
Final match: July 19, 2026 — MetLife Stadium vs New Jersey 🇺🇸
2026 FIFA World Cup: Meet the Early Qualifiers
As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, several nations have already punched their tickets to the global stage. Here’s a closer look at the teams that have secured qualification so far — from co-hosts to continental champions.
🇺🇸 United States: Ready for a Homecoming
As one of the three co-hosts, the United States automatically qualifies for the 2026 World Cup — marking their 12th appearance at the tournament. After reaching the Round of 16 in Qatar 2022, the USMNT will aim to surpass that result on home soil. This will be the second time the U.S. hosts the tournament, with the first being the memorable summer of 1994. Their best-ever finish remains a semi-final run in the inaugural 1930 edition.
🇲🇽 Mexico: Historic Hosts
Mexico will make World Cup history in 2026 by becoming the first country to host the tournament three times (1970, 1986, and now 2026). El Tri has qualified for their 18th World Cup, with their strongest performances coming at home — reaching the quarter-finals in both of their previous host years. Expectations will be high for the hosts to make a deep run once again.
🇨🇦 Canada: Back-to-Back Breakthrough
Canada completes the trio of hosts and will feature in consecutive World Cups for the first time ever. After ending a 36-year drought with their appearance at Qatar 2022, the Maple Leafs now look to capitalize on home-field advantage. In their previous two tournament outings (1986 and 2022), Canada exited in the group stage without a win — but 2026 offers a golden opportunity to rewrite that story.
🇯🇵 Japan: Dominating in Asia
Japan breezed through Asian qualifying, securing their World Cup spot with three games to spare in the third round. The Samurai Blue continue their streak of consistency, qualifying for their eighth straight World Cup. With a mix of youth and experience, Japan will look to build on their strong recent showings on the world stage.
🇳🇿 New Zealand: Back Among the Elite
New Zealand earned their place at the 2026 tournament by defeating New Caledonia 3-0 in the OFC qualifying final. This will be the All Whites’ third World Cup appearance, having previously competed in 1982 and 2010. While they’ve yet to reach the knockout rounds, their 2010 run — where they went undefeated in the group stage — remains a proud moment in Kiwi football history.
🇮🇷 IR Iran: Grit and Determination
Iran booked their spot in thrilling fashion with a dramatic 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan. Team Melli twice came from behind on 25 March to secure a vital point that ensured qualification for a fourth consecutive World Cup. With a strong domestic core and rising international talent, Iran will look to break new ground in 2026.
🇦🇷 Argentina: Champions March On
The reigning world champions were the first South American team to qualify. Argentina clinched their spot on 25 March after Bolivia held Uruguay to a goalless draw — ensuring La Albiceleste would finish among CONMEBOL’s top six. With stars like Lionel Messi still in the mix, Argentina will arrive at the tournament as a top contender looking to defend their crown.
⚽️ The remaining nations will be determined through various qualifying rounds across FIFA’s six confederations
⚽ What makes the 2026 World Cup special?
The 2026 World Cup is already in the history books:
For the first time, 48 teams – more nations, more representation and more excitement.
For the first time, the World Cup will be held in three countries – a world united in sport.
Mexico is the only country to have hosted the World Cup three times (1970, 1986, 2026).
And the United States is the second country to host the World Cup twice (after 1994) and in 2026. While Canada will make its debut as a host nation for the first time in history.
🔥 Fan Experience: Bigger, Bolder, Better
Expect state-of-the-art stadiums, world-class hospitality and fan festivals in all 3 host countries. The World Cup is not just about football – it’s a month-long celebration of global culture, food, music and community.
Plus, ticket registration is expected to open towards the end of 2025. If you’ve been dreaming of attending, now’s the time to start planning!
✍️ Final Thoughts
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is not just a tournament – it’s a celebration of global football. With expanded teams, three-host nation and state-of-the-art stadiums, it promises to deliver more drama, diversity and unforgettable moments than ever before.
Whether you’re planning to attend in person or cheering from home, this World Cup will be a once-in-a-lifetime celebration of the beautiful game.