when and where is world cup 2026

2 min read 14-03-2025

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is shaping up to be a truly global spectacle! This expanded tournament will be held across three host nations, marking a significant shift in the event's history. Let's delve into the specifics of when and where you can expect the action.

When is the World Cup 2026?

The World Cup 2026 will kick off on June 11, 2026, and conclude on July 19, 2026. This timeframe is slightly longer than previous tournaments, reflecting the increased number of participating teams. Mark your calendars!

Where is the World Cup 2026?

This is where things get exciting. For the first time ever, the World Cup will be hosted across three countries:

Canada: Several Canadian cities will host matches, offering a unique North American experience.
Mexico: A football-mad nation, Mexico is no stranger to hosting major tournaments. Expect electrifying atmospheres in their stadiums.
United States: With its extensive sporting infrastructure, the US will host a significant portion of the matches, including the final.

Specific Cities and Stadiums:

While the exact allocation of matches to each city is still being finalized, we know several cities are confirmed as hosts:

United States:

Atlanta, Georgia: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
Boston, Massachusetts: Gillette Stadium
Dallas, Texas: AT&T Stadium
Houston, Texas: NRG Stadium
Kansas City, Missouri: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium
Los Angeles, California: SoFi Stadium
MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, New Jersey): MetLife Stadium
Miami Gardens, Florida: Hard Rock Stadium
Nashville, Tennessee: Nissan Stadium
Orlando, Florida: Camping World Stadium
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania: Lincoln Financial Field
Seattle, Washington: Lumen Field

Mexico:

Guadalajara: Estadio Akron
Mexico City: Estadio Azteca
Monterrey: Estadio BBVA

Canada:

Toronto: BMO Field
Vancouver: BC Place

Why Three Host Nations?

The decision to use three nations as hosts reflects FIFA's ambition to make the World Cup more accessible and inclusive. This also allows for a broader reach and better distribution of matches across North America, leading to a larger fan base and experience.

What to Expect:

The 2026 World Cup promises to be a memorable event. With an expanded 48-team format, more nations will compete than ever before. This means more excitement, more upsets, and more chances for underdog stories to unfold. The diverse venues across three countries ensure that the tournament will offer a range of cultural experiences to fans.

Planning Your Trip:

Start planning your trip now! With matches spread across the vast North American continent, securing accommodation and transport well in advance is crucial. Keep an eye on FIFA's official website and the host nations’ tourism boards for updates on ticketing and travel information as it becomes available.

The 2026 World Cup is set to be an unforgettable experience. From the electrifying atmosphere in the stadiums to the diverse cultural tapestry of the host nations, this tournament promises to create lasting memories for players and fans alike. Get ready for the biggest and best World Cup yet!