The 2026 FIFA World Cup will open on Thursday, marking the start of a month‑long celebration of football that will be unlike any previous edition.
For the first time, the tournament will be co‑hosted by three nations — the United States, Mexico and Canada — allowing millions of fans across North America to experience the world’s biggest sporting event on home soil.
A record 48 national teams will compete, double the usual field, competing in 12 groups of four before the top 32 progress to a knockout phase that runs through late June.
In the United States, English‑language coverage will be exclusive to Fox, while Spanish‑language viewers can tune in on Telemundo, with streaming available through Peacock for subscribers.
Star Power and New Rules
A new regulation will penalize players who cover their mouths during confrontations, aiming to curb unsporting behavior. Meanwhile, 18‑year‑old Lamine Yamal is emerging as a standout for Spain, France boasts Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, and Argentina’s Lionel Messi returns for his sixth World Cup.
With Spain, France and Argentina among the favorites, a back‑to‑back victory for Argentina would rewrite history, while the tournament promises fresh storylines and a halftime spectacle that blends pop culture icons.
As the world watches, the competition will also test new regulations and showcase emerging talents, setting the stage for a summer that could redefine international football.