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The FIFA World Cup 2026 is the largest sporting event in history — 48 teams, 104 matches, 16 host cities across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. If you are attending, this is the one page that links to every practical guide you need before you travel.
Stadiums and Getting There
Most group-stage and knockout matches are held in the USA. MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey hosts the final and several high-profile knockout games. If you are based in New York City, our guide answers the key logistical question: can you walk from the nearest train stations to MetLife Stadium?
Tickets: Category 1 vs Category 2
FIFA sells World Cup 2026 tickets across multiple seat categories. Category 1 and Category 2 look similar on the surface, but the actual seat location and stadium section are very different. Our full comparison of Category 1 vs Category 2 seats breaks down exactly what each gets you in terms of view, location, and value.
Accessible Seating — A Warning
If you or someone in your group needs wheelchair or accessible seating, there is a critical issue in how FIFA allocates companion seats that you need to know about before purchasing. Read our accessible seating guide before you buy.
The FIFAplus App
You need the FIFA+ app for digital tickets, stadium entry, and match-day information. There are known problems with phone number verification, new phone device lockouts, and tickets not displaying correctly. Our FIFA+ app problems guide covers every fix that is actually working in June 2026.
Fan Festivals
Free official Fan Festivals near stadiums have sold out for several group-stage dates. If you cannot get into the Fan Festival, here are the best alternatives nearby for watching the match in a good atmosphere.
The 48-Team Format Explained
This is the first World Cup with 48 teams. The expanded group stage, new knockout structure, and sheer volume of matches changes how the tournament flows. Our format explainer walks through every stage from the group phase to the final.
Full World Cup 2026 Coverage
For group draws, team guides, qualification updates, and ongoing match coverage, visit our World Cup 2026 guide.