The 2026 World Cup is set to change the way we watch international football. The tournament will be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico and expands to 48 teams. That means more matches, more countries, and new chances for African sides to make a mark. If you want clear, practical info—this page pulls together what matters: format, qualification basics, ticket tips and where to watch.
FIFA expanded the tournament from 32 to 48 teams. Groups and the knockout phase were reworked to fit the larger field. Also, the three host countries earned automatic spots, which frees up planning for their squads and fans. Expect a longer schedule, more matchdays and matches hosted across many cities, so travel planning is key if you’re going to attend more than one game.
For national teams, the wider field means extra qualifying slots for several confederations. That raises the stakes in Africa’s qualification rounds—there are more routes to reach the finals and at least a few additional places compared with past tournaments. Keep an eye on CAF qualifiers: more competitive matches and opportunity to secure direct World Cup berths.
Tickets: FIFA runs the central sales via its official website and ticketing portal. National associations (for example your home FA) also receive allocations, so register with your country’s association for priority sales. Avoid unofficial resellers—scams and inflated prices are common. If you plan to travel between host cities, book flexible fares and refundable accommodation.
Broadcasts and streaming: Rights differ by country. In many African markets, major sports networks like SuperSport and free-to-air partners have historically carried World Cup games. Check your local broadcaster early—they’ll publish match schedules, streaming apps and package details closer to the tournament.
Where to watch if you’re not traveling: fan zones, pubs and community screenings are an easy way to catch big games with atmosphere. City councils and local federations often set up official fan events with big screens and security. Plan ahead: popular matches sell out fast.
Quick tips for fans: 1) Register for FIFA ticket sales and your national FA mailing list. 2) If travelling, aim to stay near public transport hubs—match traffic is heavy. 3) Pack for variable weather: June/July in North America can be hot in some cities and mild in others. 4) Keep travel documents and health insurance handy.
Bookmark this tag for ongoing coverage—we’ll update with qualifying results, match schedules, squad lists and ticket windows as they open. Want specific updates on African teams or travel advice from South Africa? Check the latest posts linked on this page for focused stories and practical guides.
Finidi George, former international player, has been named the new head coach of Nigeria's Super Eagles, promising to guide the team to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With his recent coaching success and strong ties with the team, Finidi is poised to boost the Super Eagles' performance.