Expanded 48-Team Format
For the first time in history, the tournament expands to 48 teams. They are divided evenly into 12 groups of 4 teams each, navigating a highly competitive preliminary stage.
World Cup 2026 Groups
12 Groups · 48 Teams · Group Stage: Jun 11–28USA · Canada · Mexico · 16 Venues
StandingsFull Points Tables For All 12 Groups
View All StandingsAvailable Jun 11
How the World Cup 2026 Group Stage Works
Advancement Rules
The top two teams from each group automatically qualify for the knockout stage. In addition, the eight best third-placed teams will also advance.
The New Round of 32
This 12-group structure feeds directly into a newly established Round of 32 knockout phase, replacing the traditional Round of 16 as the first elimination hurdle.
Schedule & Venues
The group stage exclusively runs from June 11 to June 28, 2026, spanning across 16 interconnected host cities across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.