Anticipation Builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America

The World Cup is poised to make its return to North America after a 32-year hiatus, with the last tournament held in the United States in 1994. This year, the U.S. will host a total of 78 matches, reflecting the importance of this edition for both the region and the sport.

Mexico, having previously hosted the tournament in 1970 and 1986, will become the first nation to host three separate World Cups, facilitating 13 matches in this edition. Meanwhile, Canada is set to host the men’s World Cup for the first time, also featuring 13 games. Canada previously held the Women’s World Cup in 2015, while the U.S. hosted it in 1999 and 2003.

The ticket purchasing process for the tournament has introduced complexities, including a lottery system implemented by FIFA, which received over 500 million ticket requests in January. Ticket prices vary significantly, starting at $65 for group stage matches involving non-host nations, and escalating to over $300 based on match demand. The cheapest ticket to the final is priced at $4,185, with resale values potentially much higher.

FIFA has also adopted dynamic pricing for this World Cup, adjusting ticket costs based on demand. This has sparked criticism about the high entry costs associated with attending the tournament, marking it as the most expensive World Cup to date.

One of the tournament’s most compelling aspects is the absence of a definitive favorite, with numerous elite teams possessing the talent to claim victory. Argentina returns with Lionel Messi, the reigning champion looking to defend the title won in 2022. Other formidable contenders include Spain, led by rising star Lamine Yamal, and perennial powerhouses such as France, Portugal, England, the Netherlands, Germany, and Brazil.

The U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT) and Canada are also teams to watch, with both nations showing promising performances leading into the tournament. African teams like Morocco and Senegal, having recently showcased their capabilities, add to the competitive landscape.

South American teams such as Brazil and Argentina are expected to be among the strongest contenders, with Colombia emerging as a noteworthy challenger due to their talented roster. Ecuador’s robust defense could also prove difficult for opponents.

The World Cup has historically been a platform for individual greatness, with legends like Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi making their mark. Cristiano Ronaldo faces immense pressure to capture the elusive World Cup in what may be his final opportunity.

The tournament, set to be the most attended ever with an expansion to 48 teams and an increase in total matches from 64 to 104, has already seen significant ticket sales. Over 2 million tickets were sold by late 2025, with FIFA projecting attendance of 6.5 million fans, nearly doubling the prior record from 1994.

The opening match will take place at the historic Estadio Azteca, a venue renowned for hosting two World Cup finals. This match, reviving the rivalry between Mexico and South Africa, promises to deliver excitement reminiscent of memorable moments from past tournaments.

FIFA selected 15 host cities after a competitive bidding process involving 41 cities, with 11 selected in the U.S., three in Mexico, and two in Canada. The U.S. venues are primarily modern NFL stadiums, ensuring a world-class experience for fans.

The tournament will culminate in the finale on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, marking the first time the New York area will host the concluding match. With a rich history in soccer hosting, MetLife Stadium promises to be a fitting venue for the tournament’s grand conclusion.