Everything You Need to Know About the New 48-Team Format

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 nations divided into 12 groups of four, with the top two from each group plus the eight best third-placed teams advancing to a brand new Round of 32.

From there, the tournament follows the familiar single-elimination path: Round of 16, quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final on July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.

In total, 104 matches will be played across 39 days — a 64% increase compared to the previous 32-team format. Teams that reach the final will play eight matches, one more than in previous editions.

FIFA expects the expanded format to deliver more representation across confederations, more upsets, and a deeper celebration of global football.