The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 national teams competing across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico starting June 11 [1], [2].
This expansion represents a significant shift in the global soccer landscape, aiming to increase international participation and generate higher commercial revenue for the sport's governing body.
FIFA has organized the tournament into 12 groups of four teams each [3]. Following the round-robin group stage, the competition will move into a knockout phase that begins with a round of 32 [1], [3]. Under this revised structure, the team that eventually wins the championship will have played eight matches in total [1].
"The expanded format will allow more nations to experience the World Cup," said FIFA President Gianni Infantino [3].
The decision to broaden the field was driven by a desire to create a more inclusive and competitive experience for member nations [3]. By increasing the number of slots, FIFA allows more countries from diverse regions to qualify for the premier event [3].
Yahoo Sports said that for the first time, 48 teams will compete in the tournament [2]. This is a departure from previous iterations of the event, which featured fewer teams and a different group progression system.
Host duties are shared among three North American nations: the U.S., Canada, and Mexico [2]. This joint hosting arrangement is designed to accommodate the increased number of matches and teams required by the new format [2].
“"The expanded format will allow more nations to experience the World Cup,"”
The transition to a 48-team format signals FIFA's strategy to globalize the game's reach and maximize broadcasting and sponsorship revenue. While increasing inclusivity for smaller footballing nations, the expanded schedule puts greater physical demands on players and alters the strategic stakes of the group stage.
