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New York / New Jersey 2026 Host Committee & MetLife Stadium

New York / New Jersey 2026 Host Committee & MetLife Stadium

Local Host Committee / Venue

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North America’s 2026 World Cup: from expansion gamble to mega-event reality

Rule Changes

Host of World Cup 2026 final and multiple marquee group matches

In January 2017 FIFA voted to expand the men’s World Cup from 32 to 48 teams starting in 2026, setting in motion the largest tournament in the competition’s history and a radical shift in its format and economics. In June 2018 the “United 2026” bid from the United States, Canada and Mexico beat Morocco to win hosting rights, promising record revenues and leveraging NFL-scale stadiums across 16 cities. On 5–6 December 2025, FIFA completed the Washington, D.C. draw and released the full 104‑match schedule: Mexico will open at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium on June 11, 2026, defending champion Argentina will start against Algeria, the U.S. will open group play against Paraguay, and the final is set for 3 p.m. EDT on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey to deliver prime-time viewing in Europe.

Updated Feb 5