Summary
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States with 48 nations participating. Iraq secured the final spot by beating Bolivia in a playoff match. This tournament will feature countries making their World Cup debut and will start with a match between Mexico and South Africa on June 11.
Key Facts
- The 2026 World Cup will take place in Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
- 48 countries will participate, the largest number in World Cup history.
- Iraq qualified by beating Bolivia 2-1 in a playoff tournament.
- Other recently qualified teams include Turkiye and Sweden.
- Newcomers to the tournament are Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan.
- The opening match will be Mexico vs. South Africa on June 11 in Mexico City.
- The tournament will have 104 matches in 16 venues.
- Argentina is the defending champion, having won the 2022 World Cup.
