World Cup what to know: Mexico kicks off a supersized, 48-team tournament

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has officially begun with an expanded format featuring 48 teams playing 104 matches across 16 stadiums over 39 days. Mexico opened the tournament on Thursday, June 11, 2026, as a heavy favorite against South Africa in Mexico City. The article was published on June 10, 2026, by David Brandt ahead of the tournament's opening day.