2026 FIFA WORLD CUP Match Schedule

2026 FIFA WORLD CUP Match Schedule (PDF)

FWC26 Match Schedule_v17_10042026_EN.pdf

0.14MB

 

 

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, running from June 11 to July 19, is the largest tournament in history. Co-hosted across 16 cities in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, it features an expanded 48-team format and a total of 104 matches.

 

Key Tournament Details

• Host Countries: USA, Canada, and Mexico (making Mexico the first country to host the men's tournament three times).
• Dates: June 11 – July 19.
• Participating Teams: A record 48 teams competing for the ultimate prize.
• Final Venue: New York New Jersey (MetLife) Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Tournament Format

 

Because of the expanded field, FIFA has shifted from the traditional 32-team setup to a new structure:

 

• Group Stage: 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four.
• Advancement: The top two teams from each group, along with the eight best third-place teams, advance to the knockout stage.
• Knockout Stage: A newly added Round of 32 has been introduced, followed by single-elimination matches leading to the final.

Tournament Firsts

 

• The Halftime Show: The World Cup Final will feature its first-ever Super Bowl-style halftime show, with Coldplay involved in the event.
• 48 Teams: It is the first men's tournament to include 48 teams, expanding the event to 39 days.