For the first time in the tournament's nearly 100‑year history, the Fifa World Cup will be jointly hosted by three countries – Mexico, Canada and the United States. The opening match kicks off in Mexico City on 11 June, and the final takes place in New Jersey on 19 July. The 2026 tournament is the largest ever, with 48 countries competing, drawn into 12 groups of four. The top two in each group advance automatically, joined by the best third‑placed teams, making a round of 32.
Two‑time winners France and 2010 champions Spain are hotly tipped. France boast Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé; Spain will rely on 18‑year‑old Lamine Yamal. England, after back‑to‑back European Championship final heartbreaks, are also in with a chance. Brazil, the most successful nation in World Cup history, seek a sixth title – their first since 2002.
“2026 World Cup opens 11 June across three nations; Take That play Hampden this weekend.”
While football fans look ahead to summer, music fans in Glasgow face a different task this weekend: getting to Hampden Park for Take That's concert. The band performs at the stadium, and supporters are advised to plan their journey using public transport.