About FIFA World Cup 2026
Everything you need to know about the biggest World Cup ever: 48 teams, 104 matches, 3 host countries
Tournament Format
Expansion to 48 Teams
For the first time in World Cup history, 48 national teams will compete — up from 32 in previous editions. This historic expansion gives more countries from every confederation the chance to appear on football's greatest stage.
12 Groups of 4 Teams
The 48 teams are drawn into 12 groups (A through L) of 4 teams each. Every team plays 3 group matches. The top 2 from each group (24 teams) plus the 8 best third-placed teams advance to the knockout stage — 32 teams total.
New Round of 32
The 2026 World Cup introduces a Round of 32 for the first time, adding an extra knockout round before the Round of 16. This means 16 additional knockout matches compared to previous tournaments.
Path to the Final
After the Round of 32, the bracket continues with the Round of 16, Quarter-Finals, Semi-Finals, Third-Place Match, and the Final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey on July 19, 2026.
Tournament Rules
Group Stage
Each team plays 3 matches within their group. A win earns 3 points, a draw 1 point, a loss 0. Teams are ranked by points, then goal difference, goals scored, head-to-head record, and FIFA ranking.
Advancement
The top 2 teams from each of the 12 groups (24 teams) advance automatically. The 8 best third-placed teams also qualify, making the Round of 32 field of 32 teams.
Extra Time & Penalties
In knockout matches, if the score is tied after 90 minutes, two 15-minute extra-time periods are played. If still level, a penalty shootout determines the winner.
Yellow Card Reset
Yellow cards accumulated during the group stage and knockout rounds are wiped clean after the Quarter-Finals. No player can miss the Semi-Finals or Final due to accumulated bookings.
VAR Technology
All matches use Video Assistant Referee (VAR) to review goals, penalty decisions, direct red cards, and mistaken identity. Semi-automated offside technology ensures faster and more accurate calls.
Squad & Substitutions
Each team registers a 26-player squad. During matches, 5 substitutions are allowed in 3 windows (plus half-time). An additional substitution is permitted in extra time.
Stage Schedule
Group Stage
Round of 32
Round of 16
Quarter-Finals
Semi-Finals
Third Place
Final
Host Cities & Stadiums
16 stadiums across 3 countries will host the 104 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Click a marker to see venue details.
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