FIFA approved the new format of the 2026 World Cup

For the first time, 48 teams will take part in the World Cup (previously there were 32).

Initially, it was planned to divide the teams into 16 groups of 3 teams. However, FIFA decided to abandon this idea in favor of a format with 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top eight third-placed teams advancing to the play-offs, as well as all teams finishing first and second. Thus, 104 matches will be played at the tournament.

The 2026 World Cup will take place in 16 cities across three North American countries: Canada, Mexico and the United States. This tournament will be the largest in history. 48 teams will take part in it, and not 32, as it was before.

The final match of the 2026 World Cup will take place on July 29.