The 2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be the biggest in history, featuring 48 teams, 104 matches, and an exciting new tournament format. For soccer fans, this event will be unmissable, and now that the dates and venues are confirmed, it’s time to plan ahead! This article will walk you through the complete 2026 World Cup schedule, covering key dates, locations, and kick-off times, plus give you a handy PDF download of the full bracket. Get ready for an unforgettable tournament across the United States, Mexico, and Canada!
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Key Dates & Tournament Timeline (Quick View)
Here’s a quick snapshot of the major milestones for the 2026 World Cup. Make sure to mark your calendars!
- Opening Match: June 11, 2026 (Mexico City)
- USMNT / Canada Openers: June 12, 2026 (Los Angeles / Toronto)
- Group Stage Ends: June 27, 2026
- Knockout Phase Starts: June 28, 2026
- World Cup Final: July 19, 2026 (New Jersey)
These key dates are critical for fans planning to follow the tournament, so be sure to check back for any updates regarding matchups.
Download Printable 2026 World Cup Schedule (PDF)
Want to keep track of all the games, but don’t want to scroll through pages of information? We’ve got you covered! You can download the blank World Cup 2026 schedule below. This version doesn’t include the matchups yet, but once the December 5, 2025 draw is complete, we will update it with the finalized groups and fixtures.
You can download the blank World Cup 2026 schedule below:
👉 Download Printable PDF Schedule Here
Tip: Be sure to bookmark this page! We’ll update it immediately after the December 5 draw with the confirmed matchups.
Full Match Schedule Breakdown by Round
Here’s the breakdown of the schedule by round, starting with the group stage and moving into the knockout phases. We’ll also touch on the exciting new “Round of 32” that’s making its debut in 2026.
Group Stage (June 11 – June 27)
The group stage will run for over two weeks, with 4 matches per day, and it all kicks off with a bang on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City. Estadio Azteca will host the opening match, and the first round of group games will span across three host countries: the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
For the first time in history, 48 teams will compete across 12 groups of 4 teams. The top two teams from each group, plus the best eight third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage.
The New “Round of 32” (June 28 – July 3)
A new addition to the World Cup format, the Round of 32 is where the knockout stage begins. This change means that teams finishing third in their groups will still have a chance to progress, based on their performance and goal difference.
The Round of 32 will add an extra layer of excitement to the tournament, with 32 teams battling it out to advance to the Round of 16.
Round of 16 to Semifinals
Following the Round of 32, the tournament will move into the traditional knockout phases, including the Quarter-finals and Semi-finals, culminating in the Final on July 19, 2026.
Each knockout game is a do-or-die affair, with teams needing to win to progress to the next round. As usual, the drama will escalate as the final teams push toward lifting the prestigious World Cup trophy.
The Final (July 19 at MetLife Stadium)
The 2026 World Cup final will be held at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA. This iconic venue will host the match that will crown the next World Cup champion. With teams from around the globe vying for glory, the final promises to be a spectacle that no football fan should miss.
Host Cities & Stadiums Guide
In 2026, the World Cup will be hosted by three countries across 16 cities. Here is the official list of stadiums where the action will take place.
United States (11 Venues)
The U.S. will host 78 matches, including all Quarter-finals, Semis, and the Final.
- New York/New Jersey: MetLife Stadium (Final)
- Los Angeles: SoFi Stadium (USMNT Opener)
- Dallas: AT&T Stadium (Semi-final)
- Atlanta: Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Semi-final)
- Miami: Hard Rock Stadium (Bronze Final)
- Boston: Gillette Stadium
- Philadelphia: Lincoln Financial Field
- Houston: NRG Stadium
- Kansas City: Arrowhead Stadium
- Seattle: Lumen Field
- San Francisco Bay Area: Levi’s Stadium
Mexico (3 Venues)
Mexico will host 13 matches, including the historic opening game.
- Mexico City: Estadio Azteca
- Monterrey: Estadio BBVA
- Guadalajara: Estadio Akron
Canada (2 Venues)
Canada will host 13 matches, marking their first time hosting the men’s tournament.
- Toronto: BMO Field
- Vancouver: BC Place
Kick-off Times & TV Broadcast Info
With matches taking place across three time zones, here’s everything you need to know about the kick-off times and how to watch the World Cup from your home.
Time Zones Explained (ET, CT, PT)
The World Cup will span across Eastern Time (ET), Central Time (CT), and Pacific Time (PT). This means the scheduling will vary depending on where you’re watching from.
Matches will typically kick off at 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM, or 6:00 PM local time, but times may vary based on location. For example, a match in Mexico City could start at 6:00 PM ET, while a game in Vancouver may begin at 12:00 PM PT.
How to Watch on TV (US & Global)
In the United States, World Cup coverage will be split between FOX Sports and Telemundo for Spanish-language broadcasts. You can catch the games on FOX Sports (and FS1 for select matches) for English-language broadcasts, while Telemundo provides Spanish-language coverage.
In the UK, BBC and ITV will handle the live broadcasting. FuboTV and YouTube TV are great cord-cutting options for streaming these games online.
Conclusion
The 2026 World Cup promises to be the most exciting tournament yet, with its expanded format and new teams from around the world. With 48 teams, 104 matches, and thrilling knockouts, this will be a World Cup like no other. Be sure to bookmark this page for updates on the full schedule and mark your calendar for the most anticipated sports event in history.
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FAQ
Where is the 2026 World Cup Final?
The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA.
When does Team USA play?
The USMNT plays on June 12, June 19, and June 25.
How many games are in the 2026 World Cup?
There will be 104 games in total, with 48 teams competing.
Is there extra time in the group stage?
No, there will be no extra time in the group stage. If the match ends in a draw, both teams will share the points.
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