FIFA announced the new format of 104 matches in 40 days

The FIFA Council gave the green light to the new format of the World Cup, which will include 104 matches and will be played over 40 days with 48 national teams, in the summer of 2026, in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

At the meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, it was decided (among other things) that the next World Cup would be held with twelve groups of four in its first phase, instead of sixteen of three, as originally decided.

The top two teams in each of the twelve groups and the eight best third-placed teams will form the round of 32. The tournament will then continue with regular single knockout stages, through to the minor and major finals.

The new format of the World Cup will ensure that each team plays at least three matches in the premier football event, instead of two under the previously proposed format.

Finally, it was announced that the final match of the event will take place on Sunday, July 19, 2026.