World Cup 2026: The qualifiers, favourites, underdogs and kick-off times for biggest tournament

The World Cup will take place in Canada, Mexico and the United States from 11 June to 19 July The 2026 World Cup is almost upon us - with a record 48 teams taking part. DR Congo and Iraq were the last two teams to book their places in the 23rd edition of the World Cup to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico from 11 June to 19 July. It rounded off a marathon qualification process that began in September 2023 and spanned six confederations before culminating in the high‑stakes Uefa and intercontinental play‑offs. Of the 48 teams participating, the three hosts qualified automatically while 43 places were earned via direct qualification from the confederations and two spots were determined by intercontinental play-offs. With the full cast confirmed, attention now shifts towards the biggest World Cup staged. A record 48 nations - up from the 32 that featured in Qatar four years ago - will take part in the 2026 edition, making it the largest World Cup field, with 104 matches to be played across three countries for the first time. It will take place in 16 cities - 11 in the US, three in Mexico and two in Canada - between 11 June and 19 July. The tournament will also last a reco