Tonight officially marks the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the biggest sporting event ever organized in the history of the game.
The United States, Canada, and Mexico jointly host the tournament, which has already been written into history as the most ambitious World Cup edition, featuring a record 48 national teams, 104 matches, and 16 host cities.
This new format brings a new era for world football – more matches, more travel, and an even greater global audience. Even before the opening whistle, the tournament has sparked huge reactions, ranging from excitement to criticism over organization, costs, and logistical challenges.
FIFA expects an unprecedented spectacle, with billions of fans around the world set to witness the opening of a new chapter in football history.
On the pitch, the world will once again follow the biggest stars – from defending champions Argentina, to teams dreaming of making history, and generations possibly playing for their final chance at glory.
From tonight, football once again becomes the center of the planet.
