{"opening_date":"June 11, 2026","closing_date":"July 19, 2026","host_countries":["United States","Canada","Mexico"],"format":"Expanded to 48 teams, with 16 groups of 3 teams each. The top two from each group advance to a knockout stage starting with a Round of 32.","key_events":["Opening match and ceremony at a venue in the United States (specific stadium to be confirmed)","Group stage matches across all three host nations","Knockout rounds including Round of 32, Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and final"],"notes":"The exact schedule of matches, including specific dates for each round, will be released by FIFA closer to the tournament. The final is scheduled for July 19, 2026, at a venue in the United States (likely MetLife Stadium in New Jersey)."}
2026 FIFA World Cup Start Date
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, 2026, with the opening match and ceremony taking place in the United States. The tournament will conclude with the final on July 19, 2026.