TOURNAMENT FORMAT
For the first time in history, the World Cup will feature 48 teams. A new format that promises more excitement, more matches and more football.
Group Stage
12 groups of 4 teams
The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of 4 teams. Each team plays 3 matches (one against each group rival). 3 points for a win, 1 for a draw, 0 for a loss.
The top 2 from each group (24 teams) and the 8 best third-placed teams advance to the next round.
Round of 32
32 teams in knockout stage
The 32 qualified teams face each other in knockout matches. In case of a tie after 90 minutes, extra time is played and, if needed, a penalty shootout.
The 16 winners advance to the Round of 16.
Quarter-Finals
The best 8 teams
The remaining 8 teams face off in 4 knockout ties. The intensity rises and only the strongest survive.
The 4 winners advance to the Semi-Finals.
Semi-Finals
The 4 finalists
The four best teams of the tournament fight for a spot in the grand final. Two matches that define the finalists.
The 2 winners play the Final. The 2 losers play for Third Place.
Third Place
Bronze medal match
The two Semi-Final losers face each other to determine who takes third place in the tournament.
The Grand Final
MetLife Stadium, New Jersey
The ultimate match. The two best teams in the world face off to be crowned champions of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The winner lifts the most prestigious trophy in world football.
Format Summary
From 48 teams, 32 advance from the group stage (24 first and second place + 8 best third place)
Three knockout rounds: Round of 32, Quarter-Finals and Semi-Finals
The Semi-Finals and the Grand Final determine the 2026 World Champion