The 2026 World Cup is the biggest in history, with 48 teams competing across three host nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. It is also a landmark tournament for smaller nations, with debutants and long-absent sides such as Haiti – appearing in their first World Cup for 52 years – adding to the drama.
The basics: The 2026 World Cup is the first to feature 48 teams, up from the previous 32. The group stage consists of 16 groups of three – each team plays two group matches – followed by a knockout stage of 32 teams. The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, with matches held in 16 cities across the three host countries. In the UK, all games will be broadcast live across the BBC and ITV, with every match available on free-to-air television. Radio commentary is also provided by BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT.
“A guide to the 2026 World Cup's expanded format, TV coverage, and key storylines for UK readers.”
Background: The decision to expand the World Cup from 32 to 48 teams was taken by FIFA in 2017, with the aim of increasing global participation and giving more nations a chance to compete on the biggest stage. The change has been controversial, with critics arguing it dilutes the quality of the tournament and places additional strain on the schedule. However, for countries like Haiti – whose only previous appearance was in 1974 – it has provided a historic opportunity. Haiti’s return to the World Cup after more than half a century has already generated headlines: FIFA forced the team to alter its shirt design after it featured a scene from the 1803 Battle of Vertières, which FIFA deemed a potential political statement. Haiti’s kit manufacturer, Saeta, said it respected FIFA’s decision and made the required changes.
Why it matters for UK readers: The tournament is a major summer sporting event for British audiences, with all matches available on free-to-air television via the BBC and ITV. Scotland are competing – their first World Cup since 1998 – and face Haiti, Morocco and Brazil in Group C. England, Wales and Northern Ireland also qualified, making it a rare occasion when all four home nations are present. For football fans, the expanded format means more matches and earlier kick-off times (due to the time difference with North America), with group games often staged mid-afternoon UK time. The UK’s broadcasters have pledged extensive coverage, including highlights, analysis and radio commentary, so viewers can follow every game.
Key questions answered: Q: How can I watch the 2026 World Cup in the UK? All matches are live on BBC and ITV, with both channels sharing coverage. You can also listen to commentary on BBC Radio 5 Live and talkSPORT. Full schedules are available on each broadcaster’s website. Q: Why did Haiti change their World Cup shirt? FIFA objected to the original design, which included an image of the Battle of Vertières from Haiti’s independence war. FIFA’s rules ban political or religious symbols on kits, so the shirt was modified before the tournament. Q: How does the 48-team format work? There are 16 groups of three teams; each team plays two group matches. The top two from each group advance to a 32-team knockout stage. This means the tournament has 104 matches in total, up from 64 in 2018 and 2022.
What happens next: The tournament kicks off with the opening match in Mexico City. Group stages run through June and early July, followed by the knockout rounds. The final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19 in New Jersey. All eyes will be on how the expanded format plays out – and whether any surprise packages, like Haiti or Scotland, can cause an upset.