Fifa confirmed the official dates for Copa of Mundo 2026, which will take place between June 11th and July 19th. The tournament presents a significant structural change compared to previous editions, marking the first time that the competition will host 48 teams. The organization of the sporting event divides the hosting responsibilities between the Estados Unidos, the Canadá and the México. The expansion in the number of teams changes the dynamics of the group stage and extends the total duration of the international championship.
The decision to increase the number of participants reflects a strategy by football’s governing body to integrate more nations into the global event. The new model replaces the 32-team format, used since 1998, and establishes 16 groups made up of three teams each. The change guarantees a significant increase in the number of matches played over just over a month. Especialistas in sports management point out that the measure aims to democratize access to the tournament and boost the commercial revenue generated