The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest tournament ever, with a new expanded format and matches hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico. Fans are eager to know the schedule, venues, and key dates. In this guide, you'll find all the essential details about the tournament's timeline, including match dates, group stages, and knockout rounds, so you can plan your viewing and travel accordingly.
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When does the 2026 World Cup start and end?
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The tournament will kick off with the opening matches in early June and conclude with the final at the end of July, making it the longest World Cup in history due to the expanded format.
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How are the group stages organized in 2026?
The tournament features 48 teams divided into 12 groups of four teams each. The group stage matches will be played across multiple venues in the US, Canada, and Mexico, with the top two teams from each group advancing to the knockout rounds.
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What are the key dates to remember for the 2026 World Cup?
The tournament begins on June 11, 2026, with the group stage matches running through mid-July. The knockout rounds, including the Round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the final, will take place over the last two weeks of July, culminating in the championship match on July 19.
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Where will the matches be held?
Matches will be hosted across 16 cities in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Major venues include stadiums in cities like Los Angeles, New York, Toronto, and Mexico City. The venues are chosen to accommodate the expanded format and provide a diverse experience for fans traveling from around the world.
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Who are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
While the tournament is still in the qualification phase, traditional powerhouses like Brazil, France, Germany, and Argentina are expected to be strong contenders. The expanded format also opens opportunities for debutant nations and dark horses to make a significant impact.
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How will the expanded 48-team format change the tournament?
The increase from 32 to 48 teams means more matches, more countries participating, and a longer tournament. It allows for more diverse representation, including debutant nations like Cape Verde and Curaçao, and creates new opportunities for underdog teams to advance further than ever before.