The wait is getting shorter for the world of soccer to return to a standstill with a brand new World Cup, which, for the primary time in historical past, shall be performed in three international locations: the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Whereas the match formally kicks off on Thursday, June 11, 2026, at Estadio Ciudad de México (Azteca), with El Tri dealing with an opponent but to be decided, the World Cup motion will start in December this 12 months with the draw that can decide the teams, that includes some distinctive facets.
America gained the bid over Canada and Mexico and will host the attract December, although the precise location has but to be decided. Nonetheless, the occasion is not going to happen in any of the cities that can host match matches.
The chosen host cities within the U.S. are: Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas Metropolis, Los Angeles, Miami, New Jersey/New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and Seattle.
How the 2026 World Cup will unfold
The 2026 World Cup will mark a turning level. It will likely be the primary version to characteristic 48 groups, considerably rising the variety of contributors in comparison with the 32 that competed in latest tournaments.
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With this new format, groups shall be divided into 12 teams of 4, as a substitute of the normal eight teams. The highest two groups from every group, together with the eight greatest third-placed groups, will advance to the Spherical of 32. This implies the knockout stage will start earlier, resulting in extra decisive matches all through the match.
This structural change will improve the entire variety of matches from 64 to 104, extending the match’s period and offering extra alternatives for groups that beforehand struggled to qualify. Not like the final World Cup, the place Argentina lifted the trophy in Qatar, the champion in 2026 must play eight matches as a substitute of seven.
SurveyDo you agree with 48 groups within the World Cup?
Do you agree with 48 groups within the World Cup?