A New Era of Expansion
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a historic milestone as the first edition to feature 48 national sides, up from the traditional 32. Matches will be spread across 16 venues in Canada, Mexico and the United States, giving fans in three countries a chance to experience the tournament live.
When the Action Unfolds
The competition kicks off on June 11 and will run until July 19, culminating in a final that will crown the world champion. The group stage wraps up on June 27, after which the top two teams from each of the twelve groups, plus the eight best third‑placed sides, progress to a single‑elimination knockout round.
How Teams Advance
Progression is straightforward: the two leaders of each group automatically qualify, while a secondary list of the most competitive third‑place finishers also earns a spot. This formula ensures that 32 of the 48 participants move on to the knockout phase.
The Rhythm of a Match
A standard senior match lasts 90 minutes, divided into two 45‑minute halves with a short halftime interval. If the score is level at the end of regulation, the game proceeds to extra time, consisting of two 15‑minute periods.
When extra time fails to produce a winner, the contest is decided by a penalty shoot‑out, a series of spot‑kicks that test both composure and precision.
Key Regulations
Offside is called when an attacking player is nearer to the opponent’s goal line than both the ball and the second‑last defender at the moment the ball is played forward. This rule prevents players from lurking permanently in dangerous positions.
Teams are allowed up to five substitutions during regular time, with an additional slot permitted if the match extends into extra time, giving coaches a chance to refresh their lineup under pressure.
Where to Watch in the United States
In the United States, Fox holds the exclusive broadcasting rights for every World Cup match. The network will air the majority of games on traditional television, while live streams will be available through Fox One and the Fox Sports App. Select matches will also be streamed on Peacock, Tubi and the Spanish‑language outlet Telemundo, ensuring broad access for viewers across platforms.