Explainers ·
How the 2026 World Cup worked: 48 teams, 104 matches and three hosts
A short guide to the biggest World Cup ever, from the group stage to the final at MetLife Stadium.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup was played from 11 June to 19 July 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico. It was the first World Cup with three host nations and the first with 48 teams.
The format
- 48 teams in 12 groups of four.
- The top teams from each group, plus the best third-placed teams, moved into the knockout rounds.
- Knockout matches that end level go to extra time and then penalties.
- 104 matches in total, with the opening match at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
The result
Spain won, beating Argentina 1-0 after extra time in the final. England beat France 6-4 for third place. Rodri was named the best player and Kylian Mbappe the top scorer with 10 goals.
The next tournament will be in 2030 in Morocco, Portugal and Spain.
Sources: FIFA, NPR, CBS News.
Spotted a mistake? Tell us and we will correct it.
