2026 World Cup: Teams, Hosts, and What to Expect

When the 2026 World Cup, the 23rd edition of FIFA's global soccer championship, will be the first to feature 48 teams and be hosted jointly by three nations. Also known as FIFA World Cup 2026, it’s not just a bigger tournament—it’s a completely different kind of event. This isn’t a single country hosting matches in one timezone. The 2026 World Cup will run across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with games spread from Vancouver to Mexico City and New York to Dallas. It’s the first time the tournament will be hosted by three nations, and the first time since 1994 that it returns to North America.

The expansion to 48 teams changes everything. More African teams will have a real shot. Nations like Senegal, Nigeria, Morocco, and Ghana aren’t just hopefuls—they’re built for this format. The group stage will have 12 groups of four instead of eight groups of three, meaning more games, more drama, and more chances for underdogs to make noise. You’ll see teams from across the continent fighting for those 9 guaranteed slots, and the qualifiers are already heating up. This isn’t just about who qualifies—it’s about who can survive a tougher, longer tournament.

The stadiums are already being upgraded. AT&T Stadium in Dallas, Lumen Field in Seattle, and Estadio Azteca in Mexico City are confirmed hosts. Toronto and Montreal will bring Canadian energy to the mix. But it’s not just about big venues. Smaller cities like Kansas City, Monterrey, and Edmonton will host matches too, bringing local flavor to the world stage. And with the tournament running from June to July, the weather won’t be the only challenge—time zones will stretch across three countries, making it a global viewing marathon.

For African fans, this is more than just soccer. It’s a chance to see their teams compete on a stage that’s wider, louder, and more visible than ever. The 2026 World Cup will be streamed everywhere, but the real story is how African players—many of whom already dominate top European leagues—will carry their nations’ hopes into this new era. Will we see a new African champion? Maybe not yet. But with more slots, better preparation, and more exposure, the continent’s time is coming.

What you’ll find below are stories that connect directly to this moment: teams preparing, players rising, and the quiet battles behind the scenes that shape who makes it to the final whistle. From Nigerian youth squads chasing U20 glory to Aliko Dangote’s influence on African infrastructure, these aren’t just side notes—they’re pieces of the same puzzle. This is the buildup to 2026. And it’s already happening.