The 23rd FIFA World Cup in 2026 was held jointly in Canada, the USA and Mexico — the first time that three countries have co-hosted the same World Cup. The tournament ran from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and ended with Spain crowned world champions for the second time after they beat Argentina 1–0 after extra time in the final.

FIFA World CupFIFA World Cup

Result

  • Champions: Spain — their second World Cup title (after 2010).
  • Runners-up: Argentina.
  • Final: Spain 1–0 Argentina (a.e.t.), played on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey. Substitute, Ferran Torres scored the only goal in the 106th minute, with Argentina playing the extra time a man down after Enzo Fernández was sent off late in normal time.
  • Third place: England beat France 6–4 in the third-place play-off.
  • Golden Boot (top scorer): Kylian Mbappé (France), 10 goals.
  • Golden Ball (best player): Rodri (Spain).

Tournament Information

  • The 2026 World Cup saw the tournament expanded from 32 to 48 teams. There were 12 groups of four in the group stage, increasing the total number of games from 64 to 104. The top 8 third-placed teams joined the group winners and runners-up in a new round of 32. The tournament lasted nearly six weeks.
  • Venues: There were 16 venues at the 2026 World Cup. Games were played in 11 USA cities, with three cities in Mexico and two Canadian cities.
  • Teams: see who qualified. The expansion from 32 to 48 teams meant several nations made their World Cup debut. The larger field also opened up a wider range of World Cup betting markets.
  • Mexico became the first country to host games in three World Cups. (see more 2026 World Cup Trivia)