The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened on June 11, marking the first edition to feature 48 teams and to be staged across three nations.
Matches will be played in 16 host cities spanning Canada, Mexico and the United States, giving fans a chance to experience games in venues ranging from Toronto’s BMO Field to Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca.
The competition runs until July 19, with the group stage concluding on June 27 before the knockout rounds begin.
Group Stage Mechanics
Each of the eight groups contains five teams, and every side plays a single match against each of its rivals.
Points are awarded in the traditional manner — three for a win, one for a draw and none for a loss — determining which two teams from each group advance alongside the best eight third‑place finishers.
Regulation, Extra Time and Substitutions
A standard match lasts 90 minutes, split into two 45‑minute halves with a short halftime interval.
If the score remains level after regulation, two 15‑minute extra‑time periods are played, and if a winner still cannot be decided, a penalty shoot‑out determines progression.
Teams are permitted up to five substitutions during regulation, with an additional slot available if the game extends into extra time.
Broadcast Landscape in the United States
In the United States, Fox holds the exclusive broadcasting rights for every World Cup match, while streaming options include Peacock, Tubi and other platforms.
The coverage is being tracked by journalists Steve Gardner, Jon Arnold and Lianna Norman, who are providing analysis and commentary throughout the tournament.
The tournament’s scale reflects a new era of accessibility, as fans can follow games across traditional television and a variety of digital services.