2026 FIFA World Cup.

Everything You Need to Know About the Tournament in North America

 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest tournament in history, featuring 48 teams across three host nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This expanded format promises more matches, new host cities, and a global spectacle. Here’s everything you need to know about the schedule, tickets, host cities, and key dates for the tournament.

 

When and Where Will the 2026 World Cup Take Place?

• Opening Match: June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

• Final Match: July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

• Total Matches: 104 (up from 64 in 2022).

• Host Countries: United States, Canada, and Mexico.

 

This marks the first time in history that three countries will co-host a FIFA World Cup. The U.S. will host most matches (78), while Canada and Mexico will each host 13.

Host Cities and Stadiums

United States (11 cities)

• Atlanta – Mercedes-Benz Stadium

• Boston – Gillette Stadium

• Dallas – AT&T Stadium (most matches: 9)

• Houston – NRG Stadium

• Kansas City – Arrowhead Stadium

• Los Angeles – SoFi Stadium

• Miami – Hard Rock Stadium

• New York/New Jersey – MetLife Stadium (final match)

• Philadelphia – Lincoln Financial Field

• San Francisco – Levi’s Stadium

• Seattle – Lumen Field

Mexico (3 cities)

• Mexico City – Estadio Azteca (opening match)

• Guadalajara – Estadio Akron

• Monterrey – Estadio BBVA

 

Canada (2 cities)

• Toronto – BMO Field

• Vancouver – BC Place

When Will the 2026 World Cup Groups Be Announced?

The group stage draw is expected in late 2025 after the final teams have secured qualification. With 48 teams competing, the format will include 12 groups of 4 teams each.

• The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-placed teams will advance to a 32-team knockout stage.

Ticket Sales: When and How to Buy?

 

When Will Tickets Go on Sale?

 

FIFA has confirmed that individual match tickets will go on sale in late 2025. In the meantime, fans can register their interest for tickets on FIFA’s official website:
👉 Register for ticket updates

How Much Will Tickets Cost?

While FIFA has yet to release official prices, looking at previous World Cups gives an estimate:

• Group stage tickets: Expected to start at $100 – $300.

• Knockout round tickets: Likely to range from $250 – $600.

• Final match tickets Could exceed $1,000.

 

VIP and hospitality packages (through On Location, FIFA’s official partner) are already available, starting with refundable deposit vouchers from $500.

Key Dates and Tournament Schedule

Stage	Dates
Opening Match	June 11, 2026
Group Stage	June 11 – June 27
Round of 32	June 28 – July 3
Round of 16	July 4 – July 7
Quarter-finals	July 9 – July 11
Semi-finals	July 14 – July 15
Final Match	July 19, 2026 (New Jersey)

The third-place play-off will occur on July 18, 2026, in Miami.

Who Are the Favorites to Win?

The top contenders based on FIFA rankings and recent performances include:

• Argentina 🇦🇷 (2022 World Cup winners)

• France 🇫🇷 (2022 finalists, 2018 winners)

• Brazil 🇧🇷 (most World Cup wins – 5)

• England 🏴 (looking to win their first World Cup since 1966)

• Spain 🇪🇸 (2024 Euro champions)

• Germany 🇩🇪 (4-time winners, rebuilding their squad)

• Portugal 🇵🇹 (Cristiano Ronaldo’s last World Cup?)

• United States 🇺🇸 (strong home advantage)

 

Travel Planning for the 2026 World Cup

If you’re planning to attend, here are some key travel tips:

1. Get Your Travel Documents Ready

• U.S., Canada, and Mexico require valid passports.

• Some travelers may need visas, so check requirements early.

 

2. Budget for the Trip

• Accommodation & flights will be expensive, especially in New York, Los Angeles, and Miami.

• Early booking can save money on hotels and transportation.

 

3. Explore the Host Cities

Each city offers unique attractions:

• New York/New Jersey – Times Square, Statue of Liberty.

• Los Angeles – Hollywood, Santa Monica.

• Mexico City – Historic Center, Frida Kahlo Museum.

• Toronto – CN Tower, Niagara Falls (nearby).

• Vancouver – Stunning mountains and outdoor adventures.

 

How to Watch the 2026 World Cup?

U.S. Broadcast Rights:

• Fox Sports (English)

• Telemundo & Peacock (Spanish)

UK Broadcast Rights:

• BBC and ITV (Free-to-air coverage)

Other Global Broadcasters:

• TSN (Canada)

• TV Azteca & Televisa (Mexico)

• BeIN Sports, ESPN, and other global networks

 

Final Thoughts

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest and most exciting in history, with 48 teams, three host countries, and 16 cities providing an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re attending in person or watching from home, this tournament is set to be a footballing spectacle like no other.