When Is the World Cup 2026? Full Schedule & Key Info

October 13 2025, by Adam Zawati, 1 min reading time

The 2026 World Cup kicks off June 11 and ends July 19—spanning 48 teams and 3 countries. Get the full schedule, opening match details, and qualified teams so far.

When Is the World Cup? (2026 Edition)

The 2026 FIFA World Cup takes place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Here's what matters most for parents, coaches, and players looking to stay ahead.

Key Dates and Opening Match

• Start Date: June 11, 2026

• Opening Match: At Estadio Azteca, Mexico City

• Final Match: July 19, 2026, at MetLife Stadium, New Jersey

Mexico is expected to play in the opening match as a host nation. Opening games historically set the tone for the tournament and receive global attention.

Who Has Qualified (So Far)

Total confirmed: ~18 teams.

Final slots will be decided by regional qualifiers and playoffs, concluding by March 2026.

What’s Different in 2026?

• 48 Teams: Up from 32

• 104 Matches: More games and more rotation

• 16 Cities: Spread across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico

This increases fan accessibility and viewing options, but also adds complexity in logistics and match planning.

Final Word

The 2026 World Cup will be the largest, most widely hosted edition in history—spanning three countries, 48 teams, and over 100 matches. With the opening whistle blowing on June 11 and the final set for July 19, this tournament is a global milestone for soccer.

Whether you're watching for the tactics, the national pride, or the sheer love of the game, this World Cup is one to plan around. No fluff, no filler—just five weeks of the highest-level soccer on the planet. The countdown is on.

Want to stay sharp? Start scouting qualified teams now and track how the final slots shape up over the coming months.

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