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Today in History: Uruguay kicks off first FIFA World Cup

7/13/2026

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Summary

Story summary

On 13 July 1930 Uruguay opened the inaugural FIFA World Cup, the first global tournament for men’s national football teams. FIFA chose the host to celebrate the centenary of Uruguay’s constitution and its 1928 Olympic title. All 18 matches were staged in Montevideo, chiefly at the newly built Estadio Centenario.

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Story summary

On 13 July 1930 Uruguay opened the inaugural FIFA World Cup, the first global tournament for men’s national football teams. FIFA chose the host to celebrate the centenary of Uruguay’s constitution and its 1928 Olympic title. All 18 matches were staged in Montevideo, chiefly at the newly built Estadio Centenario.