11 June 2026
Mexico City starts the tournament
The first match opens the 48-team era at Estadio Azteca.
Tournament timeline
From opening match to final
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.
28 June-3 July 2026
The expanded knockout bracket begins
The 24 automatic qualifiers are joined by the eight best third-place teams.
19 July 2026
New York/New Jersey crowns the winner
MetLife Stadium hosts the final match of the biggest World Cup yet.