The 2026 FIFA World Cup is in full swing, and England are through to the quarter-finals for the first time since 1966 — at least according to one commentator. With matches spread across three countries, late-night kick-offs, and pubs staying open until 2am, this tournament feels different. But what exactly is the 2026 World Cup, and why should UK fans care?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of the men's football world championship. It began on 11 June at Mexico City's Azteca Stadium and will conclude with the final on 19 July at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA. For the first time, the tournament is being hosted by three nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States. It is also the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, expanded from 32 in previous tournaments.
“Explains the 2026 FIFA World Cup, its unique three-nation hosting, and what it means for UK fans.”
The decision to expand to 48 teams and share hosting across three countries was made to increase global participation and spread the economic and cultural impact. Mexico previously hosted in 1970 and 1986; the US hosted in 1994; Canada has never hosted before. The tournament's format includes 16 groups of three, with the top two from each group advancing to a knockout round of 32.
For UK readers, the World Cup means late nights. England's matches, including the quarter-final against Norway, kick off at 10pm UK time. Pubs are allowed to stay open until 2am while England remain in the competition. Fans without flights to North America have been heading to local sports bars, rooftop screenings in venues like Peckham's Bussey Building, or fan zones at places like the Long Arm Brewery & Tap Room in London. The Independent has highlighted several pubs in London showing the games, including the Queens Head in East London and Arcade venues in Battersea Power Station, Covent Garden and Tottenham Court Road.
The tournament has drawn praise for its atmosphere. According to the New Statesman, the crowds have been "brilliant" and "so happy", with many families and fans from all nations dressing up and dancing. England's performance against Mexico was described as the best since 1966, with "energy and positive play at last, from the whole team".
Q: When and where is the 2026 World Cup taking place? The tournament runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026, across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The final is at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
Q: Why is the 2026 World Cup different from previous tournaments? It is the first to be co-hosted by three countries and the first with 48 teams, up from 32. The format uses 16 groups of three, with knockout rounds starting from a round of 32.
Q: How can I watch England's matches in the UK? Matches kick off at 10pm UK time. Pubs and fan zones are open late; many venues accept walk-ins. Book ahead for guaranteed seating. Broadcasters include ITV and BBC, but check listings.
What happens next? England face Norway in the quarter-finals on Saturday. If they win, they will advance to the semi-finals, with the final on 19 July. The tournament will conclude with the champion being crowned at MetLife Stadium.