2026 FIFA World Cup expands to 48 teams, unveils new format and opening ceremonies in US and Canada

FIFA announced that the 2026 World Cup will feature 48 national teams arranged in 12 groups, increasing the tournament to 104 matches. New match‑play rules include five‑second throw‑ins and goal kicks, a ten‑second window for substitutions and mandatory medical assessment for injured players. The governing body also named Kraken as the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter, linking the FIFA Blockchain on Avalanche technology, which has seen a sharp rise in transaction activity.

Opening ceremonies were staged in each host nation. In the United States, the SoFi Stadium event in Los Angeles showcased performances by Future, Tyla, Lisa, Anitta, Rema and Katy Perry, but many viewers criticized the show as underwhelming, noting empty seats and alleged lip‑syncing. Canada’s ceremony at Toronto’s BMO Field featured a line‑up that included Shakira, Burna Boy, Michael Bublé, Andrea Bocelli and other international artists, and was streamed live on Zee5.

On June 13 the Brazil‑Morocco group match kicked off at 6 p.m. EDT in New Jersey’s MetLife Stadium. Brazil’s lineup featured Vinícius Jr., Raphinha and Casemiro, with Neymar listed as doubtful. The game was broadcast in the U.S. on Fox and Telemundo and could be streamed via DirecTV, FuboTV, Peacock, Sling TV, YouTube TV and other platforms, while international viewers accessed it through regional services.