FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off today

The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially gets underway today (June 11), ushering in a new era for international football as a record 48 nations begin their pursuit of the sport’s most prestigious prize across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

The tournament, the largest in FIFA World Cup history, will run for 39 days and feature 104 matches across 16 venues in 16 host cities, stretching from Mexico City and Vancouver to New York and Los Angeles.

For the first time, the World Cup is being jointly hosted by three nations. Mexico will stage the opening match and ceremony, while Canada and the United States will host matches as the tournament expands across North America.

The 2026 edition marks a significant change in the competition’s format, with FIFA increasing the number of participating teams from 32 to 48. Under the new structure, teams have been divided into 12 groups, with the top two sides from each group and the best third-placed teams advancing to the knockout stage.

FIFA says the expanded format is aimed at providing greater opportunities for emerging football nations and broadening the tournament’s global reach. The new system has also paved the way for several countries to make their World Cup debuts, while others return to the global stage after lengthy absences.

Opening-day fixtures are expected to attract worldwide attention, with millions of fans set to follow the action as football’s biggest spectacle begins.

Organisers have planned elaborate celebrations to mark the start of the tournament, highlighting the cultural diversity and football heritage of the three host nations.

Security measures have been significantly strengthened across host cities, with authorities deploying extensive operations to manage large crowds, fan zones and the anticipated influx of international visitors.

The tournament will conclude on July 19 with the final at MetLife Stadium, where one nation will be crowned world champion at the end of the biggest World Cup ever staged.