2026 FIFA World Cup: expanded 48-team tournament amid logistical and political tensions
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July, will be the first edition to feature 48 teams and the first held across three nations. Preparations have been overshadowed by diplomatic disputes over Iran's training base, entry restrictions affecting officials from Somalia and other countries, and controversy over FIFA's ban on reusable water bottles.
HS
Hindsite Editorial
Synthesised from 40 sources
5 min read
What is happening
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off on 11 June and run until 19 July, marking the first time the tournament will be hosted by three countries—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—and the first to include 48 teams, an expansion from the previous 32 [1]. Argentina are the defending champions, having won the 2022 edition [1]. The opening match will take place at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, with the final scheduled for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on 19 July [20]. Mexico will become the first country to host or co-host the World Cup three times [1].
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