World Cup 2026: The biggest tournament ever, explained

The 2026 World Cup is the biggest in history, with 48 teams and 1,248 players competing across three host nations for the first time. The tournament runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico. All 48 squads have been confirmed, each with 26 players, including football legends Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who are both appearing in their sixth World Cup. This is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, expanded from the 32-team format used since 1998. It is also the first time three countries have jointly hosted the tournament. For UK readers, England are competing, though they will be without key players such as Phil Foden, Cole Palmer and Trent Alexander-Arnold, who are not in the squad. Scotland have also qualified for the first time since 1998, and the BBC will broadcast their opening match. The tournament begins with three opening ceremonies across the host nations, before the first games kick off on 11 June. The final is scheduled for 19 July.