How does the 48-team World Cup work?
In World Cup 2026 there are 48 teams in 12 groups of 4 (A through L). The top two in each group (24 teams) advance to the round of 32. Then round of 16, quarter-finals, semi-finals and final. There are 104 matches in total. It is the first World Cup with 48 teams and a round of 32.
What changed?
It's the first World Cup with 48 teams (previously 32). There are 12 groups instead of 8, and a new 'round of 32' is added before the round of 16. In total there are 104 matches (previously 64).
Tournament stages
Group stage
12 groups of 4 teams. Each team plays 3 matches.
→ Top 2 from each group advance (24 teams)
Round of 32
24 group qualifiers + 8 best third-placed teams.
→ 16 teams advance
Round of 16
Single elimination. The winner advances.
→ 8 teams advance
Quarter-finals
Single elimination.
→ 4 teams advance
Semi-finals
Single elimination.
→ 2 teams to the final
FINAL
MetLife Stadium, New York. July 19.
→ World Champion!
104
Total matches
39
Tournament days