Estadio AztecaHector Vivas via Getty Images

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins today with the opening match between co-hosts Mexico and South Africa at Mexico City Stadium, marking the start of a tournament that spans more than one month across North America.

According to FIFA, this tournament marks an expansion to a 48-team format, up from the 32-team structure used in previous editions. A total of 16 cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico will host the 104 matches of the competition, which concludes with the final match on July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium.

While the opening ceremonies and initial matches occur in Mexico and Canada, the United States will host the majority of the games, including all fixtures from the quarter-final stage through to the final.

Organizers state that the expansion format aims to increase global representation and provide opportunities for a higher number of member associations to compete at the international level. Teams are entering the group stages today to establish placements for the knockout rounds later this month.