11 June 2026
Mexico City starts the tournament
The first match opens the 48-team era at Estadio Azteca.
World Cup format
World Cup 2026 uses 12 groups of four. The top two in each group qualify automatically, then the eight best third-placed teams join them in a new Round of 32.
48
Teams
12
Groups
104
Matches
32
Knockout teams
Tournament timeline
11 June 2026
The first match opens the 48-team era at Estadio Azteca.
11-27 June 2026
Top two in every group advance, while third-place teams enter a cross-group race.
28 June-3 July 2026
The 24 automatic qualifiers are joined by the eight best third-place teams.
19 July 2026
MetLife Stadium hosts the final match of the biggest World Cup yet.