Historic 2026 FIFA World Cup Draw Reveals Path for 48 Teams Across USA, Canada, and Mexico

With the official draw for the 2026 tournament about to get underway at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, D.C., the scene is set for the biggest FIFA World Cup in history. This will be the first ever edition of the competition featuring 48 teams, up from the traditional format of 32 teams.

The competition, cohosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, begins June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City and runs until the July 19, 2026, final at MetLife Stadium in New York. The three hosting nations qualify automatically with 39 teams having booked their places so far. Another six spots will be allocated through the playoff games to be played in March 2026.

The draw places Mexico in Group A1, Canada in Group B1, and the United States in Group D1. Strategically, the draw places top-ranked teams like Spain, Argentina, France, and England in a way to ensure competitive balance and avoid early clashes among the strongest contenders for the title.

The expanded format introduces 12 groups of four teams apiece, with the top two from each group and the eight best third-placed teams advancing into the knockout stages. This structure promises more matches, more drama, and greater opportunities for emerging football nations to shine on the global stage.

Followers from around the world can watch the draw live on various broadcast and digital channels, with coverage in English and Spanish. The event also features a series of performances and appearances by global icons, adding to the spectacle of football’s most anticipated tournament.

The final schedule is set to be released after the playoff matches in March, but the anticipation is growing as countries and their respective fans get ready for a summer of unforgettable football across North America.