2026 FIFA World Cup is shaping up to be the biggest edition in the tournament’s history, and Gianni Infantino says fans should expect an unforgettable experience when it kicks off next month.
The FIFA president said preparations across the three host nations — Canada, Mexico and the United States — are progressing smoothly, with all 16 host cities finalising logistics, fan zones, stadium upgrades and public viewing centres ahead of the tournament’s June 11 opening match.
According to Infantino, every host city has intensified work to ensure that supporters arriving from around the world enjoy a seamless tournament experience. He said mayors, governors and other local leaders across the three countries are actively involved in preparations, from transport planning to fan festival coordination.
The expanded competition will feature 104 matches, making it the largest World Cup ever staged. The opening fixture is scheduled for Mexico City, where Mexico will face South Africa in the first match of the tournament.
Infantino also highlighted several new entertainment features planned for the event. One is a partnership with Fanatics, which will host activities in New York City ahead of the final. Another major innovation is the first-ever World Cup final halftime show, being produced in collaboration with Global Citizen and expected to feature internationally known performers.
With millions expected to attend in person and billions more watching globally, Infantino described the tournament as one of football’s most ambitious projects, saying the host countries are ready to “open the doors to the world.”
