The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to make history as the first edition to feature 48 teams, expanding the global football spectacle across three host nations — United States, Canada, and Mexico. This massive event will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with an expanded group stage, thrilling knockout rounds, and an unforgettable finale. Here’s a full breakdown of the schedule, including stages, dates, and important match timelines.
📥FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule PDF
Want a printable or offline version of the entire match schedule? Click the button below to download the official FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule PDF, including all fixtures, dates, venues, and stages.
📅 FIFA World Cup 2026 Key Schedule Breakdown
| Stage | Dates | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Group Stage | June 11 – June 27, 2026 | 12 groups of 4 teams each (48 total teams) |
| Round of 32 | June 28 – July 3, 2026 | First elimination round |
| Round of 16 | July 4 – July 7, 2026 | Top 16 teams clash |
| Quarterfinals | July 9 – July 11, 2026 | 8 teams battle |
| Semifinals | July 14 – July 15, 2026 | Final 4 teams face off |
| Bronze Final | July 18, 2026 | Third-place decider |
| Grand Final | July 19, 2026 | The ultimate championship match |
🗓️ Tournament Duration: June 11 – July 19, 2026
📍 Venues: Multiple cities across USA, Canada, and Mexico
⚽ Total Teams: 48
🌍 Group Stage Format and Structure
The group stage will be the biggest in World Cup history, featuring 12 groups with 4 teams each. Each team will play three matches in a round-robin format.
- Start Date: June 11, 2026
- End Date: June 27, 2026
- Total Group Matches: 72
- Qualified Teams to Knockout: 32
- 12 group winners
- 12 runners-up
- 8 best third-placed teams
This revised format brings more excitement and global participation, making every match vital from day one.
🏆 Knockout Stage Highlights
🔹 Round of 32
- Dates: June 28 – July 3, 2026
- Format: Single elimination
- Outcome: Top 16 teams progress
🔹 Round of 16
- Dates: July 4 – July 7, 2026
- Winners from Round of 32 will fight for quarterfinal spots.
🔹 Quarterfinals
- Dates: July 9 – July 11, 2026
- The best 8 teams battle it out to reach the top 4.
🔹 Semifinals
- Dates: July 14 – July 15, 2026
- Only two teams will book a place in the final after these clashes.
🔹 Bronze Final (Third Place Match)
- Date: July 18, 2026
- Losing semifinalists go head-to-head for third place.
🔹 The Grand Final
- Date: July 19, 2026
- The world’s top two teams meet to claim the FIFA World Cup 2026 trophy.
🌐 Related FIFA World Cup 2026 Resources
Explore more detailed coverage and updates through these official links:
- Complete Guide to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule
- All Match Dates, Times, and Stadium Info
- Official Homepage: World Cup 2026 Schedule
Stay tuned and bookmark these resources to keep track of fixture updates, team lineups, and venue announcements.