New York’s MetLife Stadium will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup grand final, defeating Dallas in a heated competition. This culminates a 48-team tournament co-hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico.
The journey begins on June 11 at Mexico City’s iconic Azteca Stadium, the first time the venue has hosted World Cup matches in three editions (1970, 1986, 2026).
“This World Cup will be the most inclusive and the most impressive,” said FIFA President Gianni Infantino, highlighting the 104 matches in 16 state-of-the-art stadiums across the three countries.
Atlanta and Dallas will host the semifinals, while Miami will compete for third place. The quarterfinals will be held in Los Angeles, Kansas City, Miami and Boston.
The offer of New York caught the attention of the city with its global status, experience in organizing large events and easy transport access. Dallas countered with its impressive AT&T Stadium, which offers protection from the elements, but ultimately failed.
Home of the New York Giants and Jets, MetLife Stadium boasts a rich history in international soccer, including the 2016 Copa America final. Plus, it sits conveniently across the Hudson River from New York City.
Also read: Pakistani cricketer Javeria Khan ties the knot
The tournament, which celebrates America’s 250th anniversary, features a 4th of July match from the round of 16 in Philadelphia, the birthplace of the Declaration of Independence. The U.S. team begins its campaign at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles on June 12 and also plays in Seattle.
The expanded 48-team format brings 24 extra matches, for a total of 104 games across 16 venues. The format features 12 groups of four, with the top two advancing and the top eight teams in third place. The knockout stages follow, with the finalists playing eight matches instead of the previous seven.
FIFA promises a travel-friendly schedule, with the full draw expected in late 2025. Teams can choose bases within their group region to minimize travel fatigue.
Prepare for a historic World Cup in 16 host cities: 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. So mark your calendars for the greatest celebration of the beautiful game with New York City
