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2026 World Cup: 48 Teams, USA, Canada, Mexico Host

10/16/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in a format with 48 teams in 12 groups of four.
The tournament runs June 11 to July 19, 2026, with the opening match at Estadio Azteca and the final at MetLife Stadium.
The group stage draw is scheduled for December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., attended by President Donald Trump.

History

Historical Context

The 1994 FIFA World Cup, held in the United States from June 17 to July 17, marked a turning point for soccer in North America, attracting over 3.5 million spectators. This was the first World Cup hosted outside Latin America in the Americas, leading to the establishment of Major League Soccer in 1993. The upcoming 2026 tournament will expand to 48 teams, further promoting the sport's growth.

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Story summary

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico in a format with 48 teams in 12 groups of four.
The tournament runs June 11 to July 19, 2026, with the opening match at Estadio Azteca and the final at MetLife Stadium.
The group stage draw is scheduled for December 5, 2025, at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., attended by President Donald Trump.

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