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Miami Gardens Today
By the People, for the People
World Cup 2026 Set to Break Records
48 teams, 104 matches across North America, and a wide-open field highlight the biggest FIFA World Cup ever.
Apr. 13, 2026 at 2:01pm
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The 2026 World Cup's expanded field and diverse host cities across North America promise an unpredictable and visually captivating tournament.Miami Gardens TodayThe 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in history, with 48 teams competing in 104 matches across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Defending champion Argentina is back, and four nations - Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan - will make their World Cup debuts. The tournament features a new group stage format and a wide range of host cities, from Atlanta to Vancouver. Lionel Messi's participation is still uncertain, but the parity in recent World Cup champions suggests an unpredictable tournament ahead.
Why it matters
The expanded World Cup field and new format promise an exciting and unpredictable tournament, with more teams and matches than ever before. The diverse host cities across North America also offer a unique opportunity for fans around the world to experience the world's biggest sporting event. The uncertainty around Lionel Messi's participation adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the legendary Argentinian looks to cement his legacy with a second consecutive World Cup title.
The details
The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams, up from the traditional 32, competing in a group stage with 12 groups of four teams each. The top two teams from each group, as well as the eight best third-place finishers, will advance to a 32-team knockout round. Matches will be played across 16 different stadiums in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the final taking place at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
- The group stage will run from June 11 to June 27.
- The knockout rounds will begin on June 28, with the final scheduled for July 19.
The players
Lionel Messi
The legendary Argentinian captain and back-to-back MLS MVP, who led Inter Miami to the MLS Cup title last fall, has not yet confirmed whether he will play in the 2026 World Cup.
Lionel Scaloni
The head coach of the Argentinian national team, who said that Messi's decision to play in the World Cup is solely up to the player himself.
What they’re saying
“I believe that he has to be there, for the sake of football.”
— Lionel Scaloni, Argentina national team head coach
What’s next
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, all eyes will be on Lionel Messi's decision regarding his participation. The Argentinian superstar has not yet confirmed whether he will play in what could be his final World Cup, a decision that will have major implications for the tournament and the global soccer landscape.
The takeaway
The 2026 World Cup promises to be a landmark event, with a record number of teams, matches, and host cities across North America. While the expanded field and new format add an element of unpredictability, the uncertainty surrounding Lionel Messi's participation is sure to captivate fans around the world as the legendary player looks to cement his legacy with a second consecutive World Cup title.
