FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule: Full Dates, Venues & Format Guide
Everything you need to know about the FIFA World Cup 2026 schedule — kickoff dates, the 16 host cities across the USA, Canada and Mexico, the new 48-team format, and the road to the final.
# FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule: Full Dates, Venues & Format
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is the biggest in history — the first to be co-hosted by three nations and the first to feature 48 teams. Here is your complete guide to the schedule, venues and format.
Key Dates
Host Cities (16 venues)
**United States (11):** New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, San Francisco Bay Area, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, Houston, Philadelphia, Kansas City, Boston.
**Mexico (3):** Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey.
**Canada (2):** Toronto, Vancouver.
The New 48-Team Format
For the first time, 48 teams will compete, split into **12 groups of four**. The top two from each group, plus the eight best third-placed teams, advance to a new **Round of 32** knockout stage. In total there will be **104 matches** — up from 64 in previous editions.
What It Means for Fans
More teams means more nations get a shot at the World Cup stage, longer tournament coverage, and matches in iconic stadiums across North America. Bookmark RushNews for live updates, match reports and analysis throughout the tournament.
