FIFA WORLD CUP - 2026

In 2026, the FIFA World Cup returns bigger, bolder, and more global than ever before — uniting North America and the world in a football festival that promises records, rivalries, and unforgettable moments. Now, 48 nations are participating for global dominance instead of the usual 32, which we have been seeing for so many years now. Although the idea of having 48 teams play in the World Cup was approved by FIFA in 2017, we get to see it for the first time in 2026. To host 48 nations, FIFA initially planned to have 16 groups of 3 teams each, but now they are leaning towards the idea of having 12 groups consisting of 4 countries in each one, to prevent collusion. This has a lot of benefits, as it allows for broader global representation and exposure for teams who have never taken part in the tournament before. There are a few concerns regarding this idea as well, as we could get to see a potential drop in match quality due to more low-ranked teams. There is also a risk of player burnout and fatigue, as the new format calls for 104 games instead of the usual 64. Although this idea is quite ambitious and supported by many, it’s also a bold move towards globalization. In this edition, we will see all the matches taking place in North America, with three hosting the tournament. Majority of the games will be played in the United States, which will span across 11 cities hosting matches. Mexico makes a historic return, as we see Estadio Azteca becoming the first stadium to host three World Cup Editions (1970, 1986, and 2026). Canada is a newcomer in hosting the competition, using stadiums such as BMO Field and BC Place. Of course, there are travel challenges involved for faraway countries, such as time zones, climate differences and cross-border movement, which could also affect player performance. Quoting the former USMNT manager Jürgen Klinsmann, “Hosting the World Cup across three countries sends a powerful message. It’s not just about football — it’s about unity, culture, and creating something truly unforgettable for fans around the world.” As the world sets its sights on 2026, a new generation of football stars is already rising — and the battle lines between giants and underdogs are being drawn. The favourites to win this edition include France, with a deep squad and generational talents, such as rising stars Desire Doue, and Kylian Mbappe, who will be looking to add to his World Cup tally, and captain his nation whilst doing so. Argentina also has a high chance that, with this World Cup supposedly being Messi’s last, he wouldn’t want to leave empty-handed. England are also top contenders, with pressure upon them from past performances in the Euro 2024 final; can they make a turnaround without Southgate? Brazil, the most talented nation will also look to win the tournament after previous performances and disappointments. Dark horses this time include Morocco, who made the semi-finals last time, Japan and South Korea, technically sharp and tactically advanced, USA with a young playerbase and home ground advantage, and finally Canada with Alphonso Davies and Jonathan David. The magic of 2026 won’t just be on the pitch — from high-tech innovations to cultural fusion and sustainability efforts, this World Cup aims to be as groundbreaking off the field as it is on it; with VAR improvements, semiautomated offside and an unmatched fan experience with big cities like Los Angeles, Toronto and Mexico City, helping blend football with culture. Although all of this may sound very promising, concerns are being raised about affordability, accessibility, and travel logistics; they all could be issues for some teams. More than just a football tournament, the 2026 World Cup will celebrate unity, ambition, and the beautiful game’s boundless reach, all while redefining the scale and spirit of football on the world stage. In 2026, football won’t just be played — it will be celebrated across a continent, by a world ready for something extraordinary.