FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off across three nations as 48 teams compete
The first 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada, opens a month of football across North America.
O
Oneonomy Admin
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has begun, the first edition jointly hosted by three nations and the first expanded to 48 teams.
What's happening
Matches run from June 11 to July 19 across stadiums in the United States, Mexico and Canada.
A tournament this size is as much a logistics feat as a sporting one.
The expansion from 32 to 48 teams adds a new group stage and stretches the tournament to its longest format yet.
Why it matters
Host cities are bracing for record tourism and the operational strain of moving fans across a continent.
Tags
World CupSportNorth America