FIFA celebrates one year to go until 48-team World Cup 2026 kicks-off in Mexico City
FIFA, the global governing body for football, on Wednesday marked the one-year countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026, which is scheduled to kick off in North America on June 11, 2026.
Taking place across three countries and 16 cities with a newly expanded pool of 48 teams, the tournament will be the largest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history.
The upcoming edition is expected to welcome 6.5 million fans to stadiums across Canada, Mexico and the United States.
ALSO READ | Brazil qualifies for FIFA World Cup 2026
'One year from now, the greatest football show on the planet will definitely captivate the world like never before,' said FIFA president Gianni Infantino. 'This is more than a tournament, it's a global celebration of connection, unity and passion. From every corner of the world, dreams are turning into reality as teams qualify and fans make their plans to be part of history, counting down to the biggest FIFA World Cup yet.'
The milestone comes as the United States prepares to host the new FIFA Club World Cup 2025, which kicks off this coming Saturday in Miami, Florida. The tournament will feature 32 of the best teams in club football from around the globe vying to be crowned FIFA's true club world champion.
In celebration of one year to go, all 16 host cities will unveil countdown clocks, featuring the city's locally inspired official host city brand. The clocks have been installed in central and iconic locations across those cities and will count down to the stroke of midnight on 11 June 2026. Each host city will also reveal a video that features a local celebrity or personality, highlighting what makes their city unique and inspiring.
'The splendour, culture and unique flavour of each of our 16 Host Cities will be on full display as the FIFA World Cup shows the world all that North America has to offer,' added Infantino. 'We look forward to hosting teams and guests from every continent to celebrate the beautiful game on its most majestic stage.'
As of now 10 teams have booked their spot for the finals alongside Canada, Mexico and the USA, who have qualified automatically as co-hosts.
ALSO READ | Which teams have qualified for FIFA World Cup 2026 — Full list here
The remaining 35 teams will be confirmed through March 2026.
Tickets for the FIFA World Cup 26 will go on sale to the general public in the coming months. Select ticket-inclusive hospitality packages are already available. Additional hospitality packages, including for matches in Canada and Mexico, are set to go on sale in July. Fans can learn more at FIFA.com/tickets.
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