The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicks off today, marking the start of the biggest tournament in the competition’s history. Co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, the month-long spectacle will feature 48 teams competing across North America for football’s most coveted prize.
The opening match will see hosts Mexico take on South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with thousands of fans expected to fill the stadium for the tournament curtain-raiser. The expanded format will feature 104 matches, up from 64 in previous editions, providing more opportunities for nations to showcase their talent on the global stage.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the tournament as a celebration of football’s global appeal, with millions of supporters expected to travel across the three host nations. The competition will be staged in 16 cities and is projected to attract record audiences both in stadiums and on television worldwide.
Defending champions Argentina will be among the favourites to lift the trophy, while traditional powerhouses including Brazil, France, England, Germany and Spain will also be aiming for glory.
The tournament’s expansion to 48 teams has opened the door for more nations to compete on football’s biggest stage, adding further excitement and unpredictability to the competition.
The World Cup will run until July 19, when the final is scheduled to be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Fans around the world are expected to follow every moment of the action as nations battle for supremacy in what promises to be a memorable edition of the tournament.