The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be a thrilling spectacle, with 32 teams from across the globe vying for supremacy. But before the games begin, it’s crucial to know where they will take place. In this article, we’ll explore the 16 host cities that have been selected to host the World Cup in 2026.
Mexico: A Traditional Host
Mexico has a rich history of hosting international soccer events, including the 1970 and 1986 FIFA World Cups. The country’s passion for soccer is unmatched, with an estimated 70 million soccer fans nationwide. In 2026, Mexico will host six games in the following cities:
- Monterrey
- Guadalajara
- León
- Puebla
- Mexico City
- Tijuana
Canada: A Newcomer to the Stage
While Canada has never hosted the FIFA World Cup before, it has a strong soccer culture and a passion for the sport. In 2026, Canada will host six games in the following cities:
- Vancouver
- Edmonton
- Montreal
- Toronto
- Calgary
- Halifax
United States: A Powerhouse in Soccer
The United States has a strong soccer culture and a history of success on the international stage. In 2026, the US will host six games in the following cities:
- Los Angeles
- San Francisco
- Chicago
- Houston
- Philadelphia
- Washington D.C.
Australia: A Far-Flung Continent Joins In
Australia has never hosted the FIFA World Cup before, but it has a growing soccer culture and a passion for the sport. In 2026, Australia will host six games in the following cities:
- Sydney
- Melbourne
- Brisbane
- Perth
- Adelaide
- Canberra
Qatar: A First-Time Host with a Modern Stadium
While Qatar has never hosted the FIFA World Cup before, it has been investing heavily in infrastructure and sports facilities. In 2026, Qatar will host six games in the following city:
- Doha
Arkansas, USA: A New Destination for Soccer Fans
The state of Arkansas has a rich history of college football but is relatively new to hosting international soccer events. In 2026, Arkansas will host three games in Little Rock.
Alabama, USA: Another Southern State Joins the Party
While Alabama has never hosted the FIFA World Cup before, it has a strong soccer culture and a passion for the sport. In 2026, Alabama will host three games in Birmingham.
Tennessee, USA: A Growing Soccer Hub
The state of Tennessee has been investing heavily in soccer facilities and infrastructure, including hosting several Major League Soccer teams. In 2026, Tennessee will host three games in Nashville and Memphis.
North Carolina, USA: A Strong Soccer State Joins the Fray
While North Carolina has never hosted the FIFA World Cup before, it has a strong soccer culture and a passion for the sport. In 2026, North Carolina will host three games in Charlotte and Raleigh.
South Carolina, USA: A New Destination for Soccer Fans
The state of South Carolina has been investing heavily in soccer infrastructure and facilities, including hosting several Major League Soccer teams. In 2026, South Carolina will host three games in Columbia and Charleston.
New Jersey, USA: A Historic State Joins the Party
While New Jersey has never hosted the FIFA World Cup before, it has a rich soccer history, with several Major League Soccer teams based in the state. In 2026
