The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to kick off on June 11 and will run until July 19.
Football (soccer) fans across the globe, rejoice! The wait is over, and the pitch is set for history as FIFA officially announced that the colossal MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey, will host the grand finale of the 2026 FIFA World Cup!
This is a monumental moment for American soccer, marking the first time the World Cup final will be played on US soil. MetLife Stadium, the shared home of the NFL's New York Giants and Jets, already boasts an impressive resume, but hosting the pinnacle of international football elevates it to legendary status.
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The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be epic. With an expanded 48-team format, more nations and fans will chase the ultimate glory. And now, they'll do it all with the iconic New York City skyline as their backdrop.
In the upcoming tournament, there will be 12 groups, each comprising four teams. The two leading teams from each group will advance, joined by the eight most successful third-place teams.
Subsequently, the tournament will shift to a direct elimination format. Teams reaching the final will need to compete in eight matches, one more than in previous tournaments.
The tournament will be hosted across 16 cities, including Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Guadalajara, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Mexico City, Miami, Monterrey, New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Toronto, and Vancouver.
But, why MetLife Stadium?
The answer lies in its capacity, modern amenities, and strategic location. With a seating capacity of over 82,500, it can accommodate the massive crowds expected for the final. Its retractable roof ensures perfect playing conditions, and its proximity to major transportation hubs guarantees seamless access for fans both local and international.
So, mark your calendars and get planning to go watch the 2026 World Cup final at MetLife Stadium in New York City.
Where is it opening?
Well, that’s got to be in The Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, no? The stadium iis set to host the inaugural match of the tournament on June 11, marking Mexico's historic moment as the first country to organize the World Cup three times!
The opening day will also include a game in Guadalajara. Mexico previously hosted the World Cup in 1970 and 1986. Notably, the Estadio Azteca was the venue for both finals, where Brazil, led by Pelé, triumphed over Italy with a score of 4-1, and Diego Maradona's Argentina clinched a 3-2 victory against West Germany.
And the other host cities?
To start with Toronto, Mexico City, and Los Angeles will host the opening matches of their respective national teams!
