When was the 2026 FIFA World Cup format approved and how many teams will participate?
The FIFA Council approved the expansion to 48 teams on the 14th of March 2023. This decision increases the total number of matches from 64 to 104.
Questions about 2026 FIFA World Cup
Short answers, pulled from the story.
Which cities host the 2026 FIFA World Cup and when were they announced?
Sixteen host cities were announced on the 16th of June 2022 including Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Guadalajara, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami, Monterrey, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Toronto, and Vancouver.
Who won the bid for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and what was the vote count?
Canada, Mexico, and the United States won the bid during the 68th FIFA Congress in Moscow on the 13th of June 2018 with 134 valid ballots while Morocco secured 65 votes.
What are the dates for player release and ticket sales phases for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
Players must be released by their clubs by the 25th of May 2026 with exceptions until May 30. Ticket sales occurred between the 10th of the 19th of September 2025, the 27th of October 31, and after December 5.
When did the draw take place and where will the final match be held?
The draw took place on the 5th of December 2025 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, was designated as the final match host on the 4th of February 2024.