FIFA World Cup 2026 – All the Essentials

The biggest football show on Earth is set to roll across North America in 2026. If you’re wondering when it starts, where it’s played and how to catch every goal, this guide has you covered.

Host Nations and Stadiums

The tournament will be shared by three countries – the United States, Canada and Mexico. Together they offer 16 cities with world‑class stadiums, from Los Angeles’ SoFi Stadium to Mexico City’s iconic Estadio Azteca.

Each venue was chosen for its size, transport links and fan atmosphere. In the U.S., you’ll find matches in Dallas, Atlanta and Seattle; Canada hosts games in Toronto, Vancouver and Montreal; Mexico adds Guadalajara and Monterrey to the mix. The spread means shorter travel times between games compared with past editions.

How to Get Tickets and Follow the Action

Tickets will go on sale through FIFA’s official site in several phases – a random draw for high‑demand matches, a first‑come‑first‑served window, and finally a resale market. Sign up early, keep your email alerts on, and be ready to act fast when the sales open.

If you can’t make it to North America, streaming options are plentiful. Broadcasters in Africa include SuperSport and Canal+; both will stream every match live online. Social media accounts of FIFA and the host federations also post highlights and behind‑the‑scenes clips throughout the tournament.

For African fans traveling to the World Cup, visa rules vary by country. The U.S., Canada and Mexico all offer special sport‑event visas that you can apply for online. Book your flights early – August 2026 sees a surge in travel demand, especially from major hubs like Johannesburg, Lagos and Nairobi.

When it comes to accommodations, look beyond hotels. Many cities have short‑term rentals, hostels and even fan villages set up by local organizers. Staying near a stadium can save you time but may cost more; weigh convenience against budget.

The match schedule releases in two parts – the group stage dates first, then knockout round fixtures once teams qualify. Keep an eye on the FIFA calendar so you don’t miss games involving African nations like Senegal, Morocco or Cameroon.

Speaking of African teams, the 2026 tournament expands to 48 squads, giving more countries a chance to compete. Qualifiers start in 2024 across CAF zones, and there are extra playoff spots for the continent. Follow your national team’s journey on CAF’s official channels for up‑to‑date results.

One tip many fans forget: set your phone clock to local time for each match venue. The U.S. spans four time zones, Canada three and Mexico two – a game in Los Angeles could start three hours later than one in New York.

If you’re watching from home, create a viewing schedule that fits your daily routine. Early matches on the West Coast often air in the evening back home, while East Coast games hit prime time.

Finally, enjoy the festival atmosphere. Fan zones pop up in each host city with big screens, food trucks and live music. They’re perfect spots to meet fellow supporters, share chants and soak up the World Cup vibe without a ticket.

With these basics in hand, you’re ready to plan your FIFA World Cup 2026 experience – whether that means boarding a flight, streaming from your couch or cheering at a local fan zone. Let’s get ready for the games and make some unforgettable memories!