World Cup 2026: Schedule, How to Watch, New Features, and Tournament Favorites

The world's biggest soccer tournament is underway, bringing together 48 nations in the largest FIFA World Cup ever held. Hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the 2026 edition promises historic moments, exciting matchups, and a month of unforgettable competition.

Tournament Schedule

The World Cup begins with the group stage, which runs through June 27. The 48 participating nations are divided into 12 groups of four teams. Each team plays three matches, facing every opponent in its group once.

Teams earn three points for a win, one point for a draw, and no points for a loss. The top two teams from each group automatically advance to the knockout rounds, along with the eight best third-place finishers.

The knockout stage begins on June 28, where every match becomes a win-or-go-home battle.

Key dates include:

• Round of 32: June 28 – July 3

• Round of 16: July 4 – July 7

• Quarterfinals: July 9 – July 11

• Semifinals: July 14 – July 15

• Third-Place Match: July 18

• World Cup Final: July 19

How to Watch

Fans can follow the tournament through multiple platforms.

In the United States, Fox and FS1 hold the English-language broadcasting rights. Matches will air across both networks throughout the tournament.

Spanish-language coverage will be available through Telemundo and Universo, while streaming options include Peacock and other digital platforms carrying live and on-demand coverage.

For supporters lucky enough to attend in person, tickets remain available for several matches, although demand continues to drive prices higher as the tournament progresses.

Participating Nations

The expanded format features a record 48 countries competing for soccer's most prestigious trophy.

Traditional powers such as Brazil, Argentina, France, Germany, England, Spain, Portugal, and the Netherlands headline the field, while several nations are making their historic World Cup debuts, including Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan.

What's New in 2026?

This World Cup is making history in several ways.

For the first time ever:

• Three nations are jointly hosting the tournament.

• Forty-eight teams are competing instead of 32.

• A record 104 matches will be played.

• The World Cup Final will feature a halftime entertainment show inspired by the Super Bowl, with major international music acts scheduled to perform.

FIFA has also introduced updated disciplinary rules designed to promote sportsmanship and prevent discriminatory behavior on the field. Players who violate these regulations could face immediate red cards and suspensions.

Who Are the Favorites?

Only eight nations have ever won the World Cup: Brazil, Germany, Italy, Argentina, France, Uruguay, England, and Spain.

Several of those traditional powers enter the tournament among the favorites.

Spain arrives with tremendous momentum, led by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, widely regarded as one of soccer's brightest young stars.

France boasts one of the deepest squads in the competition, featuring global stars Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé.

Defending champion Argentina returns with legendary captain Lionel Messi, who is competing in what could be his final World Cup appearance. If Argentina successfully defends its title, it would become the first nation since Brazil in 1962 to win consecutive World Cups.

Brazil, England, Portugal, and Germany are also expected to challenge for the trophy, setting the stage for one of the most competitive tournaments in World Cup history.

With more teams, more matches, and more global attention than ever before, the 2026 World Cup is poised to deliver a summer filled with drama, passion, and unforgettable soccer moments.