How Many Days Until the World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins around Thursday, June 11, 2026.
About the FIFA World Cup
The FIFA World Cup is the premier international association football competition contested by the senior men's national teams of the members of the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the sport's global governing body. The championship has been awarded every four years since the inaugural tournament in 1930, except in 1942 and 1946 when it was not held because of the Second World War.
The Global Tournament
Ultimate Prize
Teams compete for the iconic FIFA World Cup Trophy, one of the most recognized trophies in the world.
Worldwide Participation
Teams from across the globe qualify through continental competitions, culminating in the final tournament.
Host Nation(s)
The tournament is hosted by a different nation (or group of nations) every four years, showcasing diverse cultures.
Most Watched Event
The World Cup final is the most widely viewed and followed single sporting event in the world.
History of the Cup
The first World Cup was held in Uruguay in 1930, with only 13 teams participating. It has since expanded significantly. Brazil holds the record for most titles, having won the tournament five times. The competition has created countless legendary moments and iconic players throughout its history.
Tournament Format
The current format involves a qualification phase over the preceding years to determine which teams qualify for the tournament phase. In the tournament phase (starting 2026), 48 teams compete for the title at venues within the host nation(s) over about a month. The format typically includes a group stage followed by a knockout stage.