Dhaka, Jun 03 (V7N) – The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has entered its final phase, with just nine days remaining before the curtain rises on the biggest tournament in football history in Mexico City.
For the first time, the World Cup will feature 48 teams and 104 matches, making it the largest edition ever organized by FIFA. The tournament will also mark a historic milestone as three nations — the United States, Canada and Mexico — jointly host the global football spectacle.
All 48 participating nations have already announced their final 26-member squads, bringing a total of 1,248 footballers to the world's biggest sporting stage. The tournament is expected to be an emotional occasion for football fans, as it could potentially be the final World Cup appearance for legendary stars such as Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.
At the same time, a new generation of talents is preparing to make its mark on world football. Young stars including Lamine Yamal and Endrick are expected to be among the tournament's standout performers as they seek to establish themselves on the biggest stage.
Traditional powerhouses such as Argentina, Brazil, France, Germany, Spain, England and Portugal will once again enter the competition as major contenders, while emerging football nations hope to create surprises.
The World Cup will officially begin on June 11 and is expected to break records not only in terms of participation and matches but also in sponsorship revenue, ticket sales and broadcasting rights. FIFA is also expected to announce a record prize fund for participating teams.
With football legends seeking one final triumph and rising stars aiming to announce a new era, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be one of the most memorable and spectacular tournaments ever witnessed.
END/SMA/AJ
