How the Tournament Works
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the biggest in history — 48 nations across the United States, Canada and Mexico, from 11 June to 19 July. Here is how it all works, from the group draw to the final whistle.
All 48 teams are drawn into 12 groups of four (A–L). Each team plays the other three once. The top two of every group go through automatically, joined by the eight best third-placed teams — 32 teams into the knockout rounds.
Twelve groups produce twelve third-placed teams. The eight with the best records — points first, then goal difference, then goals scored — also reach the Round of 32. So finishing third is not automatically the end: every group result still matters right to the final whistle.
From the Round of 32 it is single-elimination: win or go home. Ties level after 90 minutes go to extra time, then a penalty shoot-out. Win five knockout games and you are world champions.
More nations than ever — debutants and small federations get a global stage.
The first World Cup hosted by three countries, spanning a continent: long travel, many time zones, sea-level heat and Mexico City’s high altitude.
A brand-new Round of 32 means more knockout drama and more room for upsets.