2026 World Cup Kicks Off June 11 With 104 Matches Across 3 Host Nations
Updated
Updated · The Guardian · Jun 6
2026 World Cup Kicks Off June 11 With 104 Matches Across 3 Host Nations
3 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 6
Summary
June 11 marks the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium, opening a 39-day tournament spread across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
104 matches in 16 host cities make it the biggest World Cup yet, spanning about 6,000 miles from Mexico City to Vancouver and Boston.
FIFA estimates the tournament will generate about $80 billion in global economic output, underscoring the scale of an event years in the making.
The expanded spectacle also brings scrutiny over high travel costs, final tickets nearing $33,000 face value and the political backdrop in the United States.
On the field, traditional powers including France, Spain, Brazil and Argentina enter among the leading contenders as North America stages football's largest event.
Will the record $80 billion revenue truly benefit host cities, or primarily enrich FIFA's inner circle?
As ticket and travel costs soar, is the World Cup becoming an event accessible only to the wealthy?
With dozens of matches facing dangerous heat, are FIFA's player safety measures enough to prevent a climate-related tragedy?
FIFA World Cup 2026: Inside the 48-Team Tournament’s Key Dates, Venues, Challenges, and Legacy Across North America
Overview
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the largest ever, featuring 48 teams and kicking off across North America on June 11. Matches will take place in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, with over a month of exciting football action. The final is set for July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey and will include the first-ever halftime show at a World Cup final, headlined by Madonna, Shakira, and BTS. This star-studded event marks a new era for the tournament, blending global football with major entertainment and promising an unforgettable experience for fans worldwide.