Turnier-Guide WM 2026
The highlights are:
- The biggest World Cup ever: For the first time, 48 national teams will take part, bringing the total number of matches to 104.
- Three host nations: The World Cup will be jointly hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico.
- 16 host cities: Matches will be played in 16 cities across North America, spread across all three host nations.
- New tournament format: 12 groups of 4 teams each, followed by a knockout stage with 32 teams.
- Record duration: The tournament spans 39 days, making it the longest World Cup in history.
- Final in New York/New Jersey: The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in front of more than 80,000 spectators.
- Germany as title contenders: Following their progress under national coach Julian Nagelsmann, the DFB side are once again among the wider circle of favourites.
- Young German key players: Florian Wirtz and Jamal Musiala in particular are seen as the team’s rising stars and defining figures.
- Aiming for a fifth star: Germany is fighting for its fifth World Cup title following its successes in 1954, 1974, 1990 and 2014.
- Historic hosts Mexico: Mexico will become the first country ever to host a FIFA World Cup for the third time.
Facts:
| Venues | USA, Canada and Mexico | |
|---|---|---|
| Start of the tournament | June 11 | |
| Duration of the tournament | 39 days | |
| Number of teams | 48 teams | |
| Number of matches | 104 matches | |
| Group stage | 12 groups of 4 teams each | |
| Venue of the final | New York/New Jersey |
