2026 World Cup groups revealed

The full field is set for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Apr. 1, 2026 at 5:07pm

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The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams competing in 16 groups of 3 teams each. The full field has been determined following the conclusion of qualifying matches around the world. The United States, as one of the host nations, has been drawn into Group A along with Portugal and Ghana. Other notable groups include Group D with Brazil, Italy, and South Korea, and Group F featuring Germany, Mexico, and Senegal.

Why it matters

The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition of the tournament to feature an expanded 48-team field, up from the previous 32 teams. This expansion is aimed at increasing global representation and interest in the world's biggest sporting event. The group stage draw is a highly anticipated moment that sets the stage for the month-long tournament.

The details

The 2026 World Cup will take place across 16 host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. Each of the 48 qualified teams has been drawn into one of 16 groups of 3 teams each. The top 2 teams from each group will advance to the 32-team knockout round. Notable groups include Group A with the host United States, Portugal, and Ghana, as well as Group D with Brazil, Italy, and South Korea, and Group F featuring Germany, Mexico, and Senegal.

  • The 2026 FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 12, 2026.
  • The group stage draw was conducted on April 1, 2026 in New York City.

The players

Christian Pulisic

A star midfielder for the United States national team who plays professionally for Chelsea FC in the English Premier League.

Vitinha

A midfielder for the Portugal national team who plays professionally for Paris Saint-Germain in Ligue 1.

Alex Freeman

A defender for the United States national team who plays professionally for Seattle Sounders FC in Major League Soccer.

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What they’re saying

“This is the biggest World Cup in history and the draw has set up some mouthwatering matchups. The fans are in for a real treat over the next month.”

— Gianni Infantino, FIFA President

“We're excited to host the world and show off the best of North American soccer. Our team is ready to compete against the global powers.”

— Gregg Berhalter, United States Men's National Team Head Coach

What’s next

The 2026 World Cup will kick off on June 11, 2026 with the opening match at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The final will be played on July 12, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

The takeaway

The expanded 48-team format of the 2026 World Cup promises to deliver an even more globally diverse and competitive tournament. Fans can look forward to seeing traditional powerhouses face off against emerging soccer nations on the world's biggest stage.