The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature a record 104 matches played across 16 host cities in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The expanded schedule accommodates the tournament’s enlarged 48-team field.
Previous World Cups featured 64 matches under the 32-team format. The additional fixtures require more venues and a longer competition window than any prior edition.
Host cities span the continent from Mexico City to Toronto and from Los Angeles to New York. Each venue will stage multiple group-stage and knockout-round games throughout June and July.
FIFA said the 104-match format allows more nations to participate while generating additional revenue from ticketing and broadcasting. Fans will travel across three countries to follow the tournament’s progression to the final.
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Sources:
https://www.aljazeera.com/sports/2026/6/9/world-cup-opening-ceremony-whos-performing-when-it-starts-how-to-watch