2026 FIFA World Cup begins with three host nations

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest and most ambitious edition of the tournament ever staged, is now underway across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. For the first time, the event is being co-hosted by three nations, featuring a record 48 teams competing in 104 matches over the next six weeks, with the final scheduled for July 19 at New York New Jersey Stadium.

The tournament officially began with Mexico defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match. This marked a historic third time Mexico has hosted the World Cup, a record for any nation. The opening day also featured South Korea's comeback victory over Czechia. The United States is set to begin its campaign later this week. The expanded format includes four nations-Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan-making their World Cup debuts.

Spain enters the tournament as the slight favorite to win, according to oddsmakers, followed closely by France, England, Portugal, Brazil, and Argentina. Host nation Mexico saw its odds improve significantly after its opening victory.

The unprecedented scale of the tournament, spanning 16 host cities, has been supported by significant innovations in border management and travel...