World Cup 2026: Everything You Need to Know

In 2026, the FIFA World Cup returns to North America—bringing the world’s most celebrated sporting event to stadiums across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. With more matches, more cities, and more teams than ever before, this World Cup promises to be a once-in-a-generation experience.

With TravelPal.ai, you can build the perfect itinerary to follow your favorite team, explore host cities, and make the most of every match day.

A New Format with More Teams

For the first time, the World Cup will expand from 32 to 48 national teams, creating 104 total matches over five weeks. The new structure will include 16 groups of 3 teams, followed by a 32-team knockout stage. That means more action and more chances to see underdog stories unfold.

Host Cities and Stadiums

Sixteen cities will host games across three countries:

• United States (11 cities): Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle
• Canada (2 cities): Toronto, Vancouver
• Mexico (3 cities): Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey

FIFA selected each stadium for its world-class facilities and passionate fanbase, from AT&T Stadium in Dallas to Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

When It Happens

The tournament will take place June–July 2026, with exact match dates and ticket information released closer to kickoff. The final is expected to be held at MetLife Stadium in the New York/New Jersey area, although this has not yet been officially confirmed.

How to Get Tickets

Tickets will be released in phases through FIFA’s official platform. Fans are encouraged to register early and monitor announcements from FIFA.com. Packages may include single matches, team-following bundles, and city-specific passes.

Travel Tips for Fans

With games across such a wide area, logistics matter. Be sure to plan:

• Flights and intercity travel (domestic flights, trains, or rental cars)
• Accommodations near stadiums or downtown districts
• Visas or entry requirements, especially if traveling between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico

With TravelPal.ai, you can create a flexible travel plan that adapts to your match schedule and adds fun side trips to nearby attractions.

What Else to Explore

Each host city offers something special:

• In Los Angeles, visit beaches, museums, and theme parks.
• Toronto blends diverse food scenes with lakeside strolls.
• Philadelphia pairs sports history with real U.S. history.
• In Monterrey, don’t miss mountain views and authentic northern Mexican cuisine.

Want more? Add day trips to Boston’s Cape Cod, Seattle’s San Juan Islands, or Dallas’s Fort Worth Stockyards. Each area gives fans a deeper taste of the region’s character.

Plan a trip to the 2026 World Cup today at TravelPal.ai.