Tournament timeline

From opening match to final

Opening match

11 June 2026

Mexico City starts the tournament

The first match opens the 48-team era at Estadio Azteca.

Group stage

11-27 June 2026

Twelve groups decide the first cut

Top two in every group advance, while third-place teams enter a cross-group race.

Round of 32

28 June-3 July 2026

The expanded knockout bracket begins

The 24 automatic qualifiers are joined by the eight best third-place teams.

Final

19 July 2026

New York/New Jersey crowns the winner

MetLife Stadium hosts the final match of the biggest World Cup yet.