Philadelphia, PA. — The countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially begun. With exactly one year remaining until the tournament kicks off, countdown clocks have been revealed across the 16 host cities. The opening match is scheduled for June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, making it the first stadium in history to host three World Cup opening games. While Washington D.C. and Ottawa are not among the host cities (marking the third World Cup where matches are not held in all host nations` capitals), the excitement is palpable, particularly with the United States celebrating its 250th anniversary and Philadelphia, a significant historical city, playing a prominent role.
Philadelphia, often known as the City of Brotherly Love, is also set to host the upcoming Club World Cup, beginning this Saturday. This event will serve as a crucial trial run for the larger World Cup tournament. However, Philadelphia is well-versed in managing major global gatherings, having successfully hosted the 2016 Copa America Centenario and welcomed Pope Francis during the World Meeting of Families in 2015.
Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle Parker expressed confidence in the city`s readiness, stating, “We are prepared and the eyes of the world will be on our great city as the FIFA World Cup matches officially begin.” She emphasized the broader impact, adding, “This is more than just a sporting event; it is a transformative moment that embodies everything that we`re working toward here in the city of Philadelphia, and that`s a safer, greener Philadelphia with opportunity for all, and it`s going to be amazing to have the world see it.”
To date, thirteen teams have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, which is expanding to include a record 48 teams. Another 35 national teams will secure their berths through upcoming qualification rounds. This marks the first time the United States has hosted the World Cup since 1994. The 1994 tournament set a record for the highest attendance at a World Cup, a benchmark widely expected to be surpassed in the 2026 edition. With matches distributed across venues in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, the event represents an exciting opportunity for the entire continent, allowing host cities like Philadelphia to showcase their best.
Meg Kane, executive and CEO of Philadelphia Soccer 2026, highlighted the enthusiasm among local supporters and partners. She noted the excitement surrounding the arrival of international fans and the opportunity to learn about their diverse fan cultures. Kane referenced Philadelphia`s distinct fan spirit, exemplified by the “Go Birds” chant associated with Eagles games, and expressed local interest in both observing and potentially participating in the vibrant celebratory atmosphere that World Cup fans bring.
Ultimately, the World Cup stands as a unique global event, uniting fans from across the globe in a true celebration of soccer.
As the tournament approaches, here is key information to know:
Key Dates Leading Up to 2026
- June 11, 2025: One year until the opening match
- Sept. 2025: CONMEBOL qualifying concludes
- Nov. 2025: CAF, AFC, UEFA, and Concacaf qualifying concludes
- Dec. 2025: Official World Cup Draw takes place
- March 2026: World Cup and UEFA qualifying playoffs
- March 3, 2026: 100 days until kickoff
- April 22, 2026: 50 days until kickoff
- May 11, 2026: One month until kickoff
Host Cities and Stadiums Across North America
The 16 host cities are divided into three regions:
East Region
- Toronto, Canada — BMO Field
- Boston, Massachusetts, USA — Gillette Stadium
- Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA — Lincoln Financial Field
- Miami, Florida, USA — Hard Rock Stadium
- New York/New Jersey, USA — MetLife Stadium
Central Region
- Dallas, Texas, USA — AT&T Stadium
- Atlanta, Georgia, USA — Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Kansas City, Missouri, USA — Arrowhead Stadium
- Houston, Texas, USA — NRG Stadium
- Monterrey, Mexico — Estadio BBVA
- Mexico City, Mexico — Estadio Azteca
West Region
- Vancouver, Canada — BC Place
- Seattle, Washington, USA — Lumen Field
- Los Angeles, California, USA — SoFi Stadium
- San Francisco, California, USA — Levi`s Stadium
- Guadalajara, Mexico — Estadio Akron
Match Schedules for Host Nations
Opponents for these group stage matches will be determined during the World Cup draw.
USMNT: Group D Matches
- June 12, 2026: Los Angeles
- June 19, 2026: Seattle
- June 25, 2026: Los Angeles
Mexico: Group A Matches
- June 11, 2026: Mexico City (Opening Match)
- June 18, 2026: Mexico City
- June 24, 2026: Guadalajara
Canada: Group B Matches
- June 12, 2026: Toronto
- June 18, 2026: Vancouver
- June 24, 2026: Vancouver
Anticipated Knockout Stage Schedule
- June 28 – July 3, 2026: Round of 32
- July 4 – 7, 2026: Round of 16
- July 9 – 11, 2026: Quarterfinals
- July 14 – 15, 2026: Semifinals
- July 18, 2026: Third-place match
- July 19, 2026: Final
