who will hold world cup 2026

2 min read 14-03-2025

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a truly unique event, jointly hosted by three North American nations: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This marks the first time the tournament will be held across three countries.

A Tri-National Effort: USA, Mexico, and Canada

The decision to award the 2026 World Cup to this tri-national bid was announced by FIFA in June 2018. The joint bid defeated a rival bid from Morocco. This unprecedented collaboration promises a spectacular tournament, leveraging the strengths of each host nation.

United States: A Footballing Giant

The United States, with its vast network of modern stadiums and passionate, growing fanbase, will be a key player in hosting the majority of matches. Major cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Dallas are expected to feature prominently. Their experience hosting major sporting events, including previous World Cups, adds a level of expertise and infrastructure unmatched by many other nations. Expect state-of-the-art facilities and a vibrant atmosphere.

Mexico: A Footballing Powerhouse

Mexico, a nation with a rich footballing history and fervent support, will add a unique Latin American flavor to the tournament. The passionate Mexican fans are renowned for their incredible atmosphere, making for an electrifying experience for players and spectators alike. Their stadiums are sure to be packed to the rafters. Mexico City, Guadalajara, and Monterrey are expected to be among the host cities.

Canada: A Rising Star

Canada's inclusion in the hosting arrangement adds another dimension to the tournament. While not as established in the international football landscape as the US and Mexico, Canada is experiencing a significant surge in football's popularity. Canadian cities like Toronto and Vancouver will provide a different perspective and atmosphere, showcasing the country's stunning landscapes and welcoming culture.

Match Allocation and Stadiums

While the specific allocation of matches across the various stadiums and cities is yet to be finalized, we can expect a distribution that balances the strengths and capacities of each nation's infrastructure. Expect a diverse range of stadium experiences, from massive modern arenas to more intimate venues. FIFA will undoubtedly aim to ensure fair distribution and accessibility for fans across the three nations.

The 2026 World Cup: A Tournament of Superlatives

The 2026 World Cup is set to be the biggest and most expansive in history. With 48 teams participating (an expansion from the traditional 32), the tournament will be a truly global spectacle. This expansion promises a broader range of football styles and national teams, increasing the excitement and unpredictability of the event. The shared hosting by the US, Mexico, and Canada ensures a unique and memorable experience for both players and fans. The tournament will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy on North American football.

Frequently Asked Questions

What cities will host the 2026 World Cup?

The exact list of host cities is still being finalized. However, major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Dallas (USA), Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey (Mexico), Toronto and Vancouver (Canada) are strong contenders.

How many teams will participate in the 2026 World Cup?

48 teams will participate, an expansion from the previous 32-team format.

When will the 2026 World Cup take place?

The tournament is scheduled for the summer of 2026, in June and July.

The 2026 World Cup promises to be a landmark event, showcasing the power of collaboration and the growing global passion for football. The combined strengths of the United States, Mexico, and Canada guarantee an unforgettable tournament, solidifying North America's place in the heart of the beautiful game.