The expanded 48-team format for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across North America (USA, Canada, and Mexico) featured 104 total matches split into 12 groups of four, culminating in Spain winning the tournament after five-and-a-half weeks of play.
The first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cupâ„¢ concluded across Canada, Mexico, and the United States, featuring 104 matches over 39 days in 16 host cities.
Tri-Nation Co-Hosting Model
The joint effort across three North American nations demonstrated smooth cross-border logistics and stadium operations.
The modified structure created compelling group-stage drama, allowing the top third-place finishers to advance to the Round of 32.
Nations like Cabo Verde, Uzbekistan, and Curaçao made historic appearances, expanding the global footprint of the tournament.
More than 6 million fans attended matches live, breaking the all-time attendance record previously held by the 1994 USA World Cup.
Tournament Structure and Execution
Matches and Venues: Spread across 16 host cities in three countries, totaling 104 matches.
Group to Knockout Progression: 12 groups of four teams where the top two teams and eight best third-place finishers advanced to a new 32-team knockout stage.
The Final: Held at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey on July 19, 2026. [1]
