2026 FIFA World Cup: Format, Fixtures, and Kickoff Details

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to commence on June 11, 2026, with the opening match between host nation Mexico and South Africa. This tournament will be historic as it marks the first time that three countries—Mexico, the United States, and Canada—will co-host the World Cup.

The tournament will feature a new 12-group format, allowing for an expanded total of 48 teams, which is expected to increase the number of matches and provide more nations the opportunity to compete on football's biggest stage. The group stage matches will take place across multiple cities in the three host countries, running throughout June.

Teams will battle for qualification to the knockout rounds, with the top teams from each group and the best-performing runners-up advancing. The detailed group stage fixtures include notable matchups such as Brazil vs.

Morocco and Argentina vs. Algeria, among others.