After much anticipation, the locations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 have been officially announced. The tournament, set to be a historic event, will be co-hosted by three North American nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This marks the first time three countries will jointly host the World Cup since its inception, and the first time since 2002 that more than two nations have shared hosting duties. So, Where Is The World Cup 2026 exactly? Let’s delve into the details of the selected host cities and venues across these three nations.
The selection process concluded with 16 cities chosen to host matches. A significant portion of the games, 11 venues, will be located in the United States. Mexico will contribute three host cities, making history as the first country to host or co-host three FIFA World Cups, having previously hosted in 1970 and 1986. Canada will host matches for the first time in a men’s World Cup, adding two cities to the roster, after successfully hosting the Women’s World Cup in 2015.
Confirmed Host Cities:
- United States: New York/New Jersey, Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, Miami, Houston, Dallas, Kansas City, Seattle, San Francisco Bay Area (Santa Clara), Los Angeles (Inglewood)
- Canada: Vancouver, Toronto
- Mexico: Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey
The 2026 World Cup will also be groundbreaking as the first to feature an expanded format of 48 teams, a significant increase from the 32-team format that has been in place since 1998. This expansion means a total of 80 matches will be played across the 16 venues. The United States is slated to host the lion’s share of these games, a total of 60, including the quarter-finals, semi-finals, and the highly anticipated final match. Mexico and Canada will each host 10 matches.
The venues have been geographically categorized into three regions: East, Central, and West, facilitating travel and logistics during the tournament. The official announcement of the host cities took place in New York City, marking a significant milestone in the lead-up to 2026.
Here’s a detailed look at each of the chosen venues, offering insights into their capacities, histories, and what makes them ideal for hosting the world’s biggest football tournament.
Venues in the United States
The United States is at the heart of the where is the World Cup 2026 question, hosting the majority of the matches across 11 diverse cities. These venues are spread across the country, showcasing the vastness and passion for soccer in the USA. From state-of-the-art modern stadiums to iconic, established arenas, the U.S. venues promise a spectacular World Cup experience.
SEATTLE, WASHINGTON
- Venue: Lumen Field
- Address: 800 Occidental Ave. S, Seattle, WA 98134
- Capacity: 69,000 (forecasted 61,812 for World Cup)
- Opened: 2002
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Teams: Seattle Seahawks (NFL), Seattle Sounders (MLS), OL Reign (NWSL)
- Proposed World Cup Rounds: Quarterfinal, Third-Place Match
Lumen Field, despite being primarily built for the NFL’s Seattle Seahawks, has cultivated a strong reputation as one of the most vibrant and loudest soccer venues in the United States. This is largely thanks to the unwavering support of Seattle Sounders fans, consistently ranking among the top in MLS attendance. The stadium’s open-air design, coupled with a partial roof covering 70% of seats, effectively amplifies the crowd noise, creating an electric atmosphere.
Located conveniently close to downtown Seattle, Lumen Field is easily accessible via public transportation, including Amtrak’s King Street Station and Seattle’s Sound Transit rail system. Its proximity to popular attractions like Pike Place Market, approximately 20 minutes by public transport, enhances its appeal for visiting fans.
Major Events Hosted: Lumen Field boasts a history of hosting significant soccer events, including matches during the 2016 Copa America Centenario and multiple CONCACAF Gold Cups. It has also welcomed numerous high-profile friendly matches featuring national teams like the U.S. and Mexico, and renowned clubs such as Manchester United and Barcelona.
SAN FRANCISCO BAY AREA, CALIFORNIA (Santa Clara)
Levi's Stadium, home of the San Francisco 49ers, a technologically advanced venue selected for the 2026 World Cup in the San Francisco Bay Area.
- Venue: Levi’s Stadium
- Address: 4900 Marie P. DeBartolo Way, Santa Clara, CA 95054
- Capacity: 70,909
- Opened: 2014
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Team: San Francisco 49ers (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Round: Semifinal
Levi’s Stadium, situated in the heart of Silicon Valley, lives up to its location as one of the most technologically advanced sports venues globally. It features state-of-the-art cellular and Wi-Fi infrastructure and is LEED Gold certified for its sustainable design and operations. The stadium even includes unique features like an organic rooftop farm and a dedicated in-stadium app, reflecting its modern and innovative approach.
Major Events Hosted: Beyond hosting numerous soccer matches, including MLS games, Copa America fixtures, and Gold Cup finals, Levi’s Stadium has become a premier destination for major events on the West Coast. It hosted Super Bowl 50, WrestleMania 31, and the 2015 NHL Stadium Series game. It’s also in contention to host matches for the 2031 Men’s Rugby World Cup and the 2033 Women’s Rugby World Cup, showcasing its versatility.
LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA (Inglewood)
- Venue: SoFi Stadium
- Address: 1001 Stadium Dr., Inglewood, CA 90301
- Capacity: 70,000
- Opened: 2021
- Field Dimensions: To Be Determined
- Home Teams: Los Angeles Rams (NFL), Los Angeles Chargers (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Round: N/A
SoFi Stadium, a stunning $5 billion venue, is the newest stadium among the selected World Cup hosts. While field dimensions are still to be confirmed for soccer, the stadium captivates with its breathtaking circular, double-sided video screen suspended above the field. Known for attracting celebrity attendees and hosting high-profile events, SoFi Stadium represents the glamour of Hollywood.
FIFA’s selection of SoFi over the historic Rose Bowl in Pasadena, which hosted the 1994 men’s final and 1999 women’s final, highlights a preference for modern amenities and accessibility. SoFi Stadium is set to host its inaugural soccer matches with a MLS-Liga MX doubleheader in August 2023.
Major Events Hosted: SoFi Stadium immediately established itself as a major event venue by hosting Super Bowl LVI in 2022. It has also hosted concerts by global music icons like Justin Bieber, The Rolling Stones, and BTS. Looking ahead, SoFi is slated to host the 2023 College Football Playoff National Championship, Wrestlemania 39, and the opening and closing ceremonies of the 2028 Summer Olympics.
DALLAS, TEXAS (Arlington)
AT&T Stadium, home of the Dallas Cowboys, featuring a retractable roof and high capacity, selected as a venue for the 2026 World Cup in Dallas.
- Venue: AT&T Stadium
- Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011
- Capacity: 92,967
- Opened: 2009
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Team: Dallas Cowboys (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Rounds: Semifinal, Final
AT&T Stadium, the iconic home of the Dallas Cowboys, is known for its distinctive retractable roof and impressive scale. Since opening in 2009, it has consistently drawn large crowds and hosted major events. Super Bowl XLV in 2011, held at AT&T Stadium, remains the second-most attended Super Bowl in history, attracting over 103,000 spectators. Preparations for the World Cup may involve widening the field and installing natural grass over the existing turf to meet FIFA standards.
Major Events Hosted: AT&T Stadium has become a premier venue for a wide range of sporting events, from NBA All-Star Games and NCAA Final Fours to high-profile boxing matches featuring Canelo Alvarez. It has also hosted numerous soccer matches, featuring both the Mexican and U.S. national teams, as well as friendly matches with top European clubs like Chelsea and Barcelona.
HOUSTON, TEXAS
- Venue: NRG Stadium
- Address: 1 NRG Parkway, Houston, TX 77054
- Capacity: 72,220
- Opened: 2002
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Team: Houston Texans (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Rounds: Quarterfinal, Third-Place Match
NRG Stadium, home to the Houston Texans, offers a unique blend of Texan culture and world-class sporting facilities. Interestingly, it shares its grounds with the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The stadium boasts a retractable roof, providing respite from Houston’s humid summers. Adjacent to NRG Stadium stands the Astrodome, a historic landmark as the world’s first multi-sport domed stadium.
Major Events Hosted: NRG Stadium has a rich history of hosting major sporting events, including two Super Bowls and numerous CONCACAF Gold Cup matches. It also hosted games during the 2010 MLS All-Star Game and the 2016 Copa America Centenario, where Lionel Messi became Argentina’s all-time leading scorer. Notably, it hosted the only Manchester City-Manchester United derby ever played outside of England in 2017.
KANSAS CITY, MISSOURI
Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, known for its loud atmosphere and rich sports history, selected for the 2026 World Cup in Kansas City.
- Venue: Arrowhead Stadium
- Address: One Arrowhead Drive, Kansas City, MO 64129
- Capacity: 76,640
- Opened: 1972
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Team: Kansas City Chiefs (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Rounds: Quarterfinal, Group Stage Matches
Kansas City, situated in the American Midwest, is a city steeped in history and sports culture. Arrowhead Stadium, home of the Kansas City Chiefs, underwent significant renovations in the early 2010s to enhance fan experience with upgraded facilities and amenities. The stadium is renowned for its intensely loud atmosphere, holding a Guinness World Record for the loudest stadium roar at 142.2 dB.
Major Events Hosted: Arrowhead Stadium has a strong connection to soccer, having hosted U.S. Men’s National Team World Cup qualifiers and the 2004 U.S. Open Cup final. It also served as the home of Sporting Kansas City (formerly Kansas City Wizards) from 1996 to 2008. The stadium’s passionate atmosphere is sure to create a memorable World Cup experience.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium
- Address: 1 AMB Drive NW, Atlanta, GA 30313
- Capacity: 75,000 (forecasted 65,085 for World Cup)
- Opened: 2017
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Teams: Atlanta United (MLS), Atlanta Falcons (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Round: Semifinal
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, one of the newest venues on the list, boasts cutting-edge technology and modern design. Its standout feature is the “video halo board,” a 360-degree display, the largest of its kind in any stadium. The stadium is also equipped with over 2,000 TV screens and 1,800 wireless access points, ensuring a connected fan experience. Atlanta United, the stadium’s MLS tenant, consistently draws top attendance figures in the league, highlighting the city’s growing soccer enthusiasm.
Major Events Hosted: Mercedes-Benz Stadium has quickly become a go-to venue for major sporting events, including Super Bowl LIII in 2019, the College Football Playoff National Championship in 2018, and the 2018 MLS Cup. It hosted the 2018 MLS All-Star Game and numerous friendly matches featuring the Mexican national team. Interestingly, it also served as a temporary recording studio for Kanye West while he was finishing his album Donda.
MIAMI, FLORIDA (Miami Gardens)
Hard Rock Stadium, home of the Miami Dolphins, a venue recently renovated and located in a city with a rich soccer history, selected for the 2026 World Cup in Miami.
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium
- Address: 347 Don Shula Drive, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
- Capacity: 67,518
- Opened: 1987
- Field Dimensions: 105 m x 68 m
- Home Teams: Miami Dolphins (NFL), University of Miami Hurricanes
- Proposed World Cup Round: Quarterfinal
Miami, a city with a vibrant multicultural history, has a long-standing connection to soccer, having hosted teams in various professional leagues over the decades. Hard Rock Stadium recently underwent a $500 million renovation, adding a state-of-the-art roof canopy that covers approximately 90% of the seats, providing much-needed shade in the South Florida climate.
Major Events Hosted: Miami is accustomed to hosting major international events. Hard Rock Stadium hosted a Clasico match between Real Madrid and Barcelona in 2017, as well as six Super Bowls, the NFL Pro Bowl, and multiple college football national championship games. In 2022, it hosted the inaugural Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix, demonstrating its versatility as a venue.
PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA
- Venue: Lincoln Financial Field
- Address: 1 Lincoln Financial Field Way, Philadelphia, PA 19145
- Capacity: 69,328
- Opened: 2003
- Field Dimensions: 105 m x 68 m
- Home Team: Philadelphia Eagles (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Rounds: Quarterfinal, Third-Place Match
Philadelphia, the “City of Brotherly Love,” brings its passion and history to the World Cup as a host city. Lincoln Financial Field is a multi-purpose venue committed to sustainability, operating as a zero-waste facility with solar panels and wind turbines generating more power than the stadium consumes during an Eagles season.
Major Events Hosted: Lincoln Financial Field’s inaugural event was a soccer match between Manchester United and Barcelona, highlighting the city’s early embrace of the sport at this venue. It has since hosted matches during the 2003 FIFA Women’s World Cup and the 2015 CONCACAF Gold Cup final. The stadium also hosted an NHL Stadium Series game in 2019, drawing a crowd of 69,000 fans. It is a regular stop for major music tours, welcoming artists like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé.
NEW YORK/NEW JERSEY (East Rutherford, New Jersey)
MetLife Stadium, home of the New York Giants and Jets, a venue with extensive experience hosting major soccer matches, selected for the 2026 World Cup representing New York/New Jersey.
- Venue: MetLife Stadium
- Address: One MetLife Stadium Dr, East Rutherford, NJ 07073
- Capacity: 87,157
- Opened: 2010
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Teams: New York Giants (NFL), New York Jets (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Rounds: Opening Match, Final
MetLife Stadium, despite being relatively young, has already accumulated significant experience hosting world-class soccer events. It has welcomed numerous international friendlies featuring prominent national teams and hosted matches for the International Champions Cup, Gold Cup, and Copa America Centenario. The 2016 Copa America Centenario final at MetLife drew a record crowd of 82,026, the highest in the competition’s history. Despite its New Jersey address, MetLife is easily accessible from New York City via a short bus ride from Manhattan.
Major Events Hosted: MetLife Stadium has hosted a wide array of events since opening in 2010, including Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014 and two WrestleManias. It has a strong track record in international soccer, highlighted by the 2016 Copa America Centenario final. This stadium is poised to play a central role in the where is the World Cup 2026 narrative, hosting both the opening match and the final.
BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS (Foxborough)
- Venue: Gillette Stadium
- Address: 1 Patriot Place, Foxborough, MA 02035
- Capacity: 70,000
- Opened: 2002
- Field Dimensions: 105 meters x 68 meters
- Home Teams: New England Revolution (MLS), New England Patriots (NFL)
- Proposed World Cup Round: Semifinal
Gillette Stadium, located about 40 minutes southwest of Boston, carries a legacy of World Cup hosting. Its predecessor, Foxboro Stadium, hosted matches in the 1994 World Cup and the 1999 Women’s World Cup. Gillette Stadium in its current form has hosted World Cup qualifiers, Gold Cups, and Copa America Centenario matches. While it may lack the ultra-modern glitz of some newer stadiums, Gillette has undergone renovations to improve Wi-Fi and fan amenities.
Major Events Hosted: Gillette Stadium has been a consistent soccer venue for two decades, hosting numerous CONCACAF Gold Cup and Women’s World Cup matches. It is also a major concert venue and a regular host of primetime NFL games, thanks to the New England Patriots’ sustained success.
Venues in Mexico
Mexico’s contribution to where is the World Cup 2026 is significant, with three iconic cities selected as hosts. These venues bring a rich footballing history and passionate fan base to the tournament.
MEXICO CITY
Estadio Azteca, a legendary stadium in Mexico City, steeped in World Cup history and set to host matches for a third time in 2026.
- Venue: Estadio Azteca
- Address: Calz. De Tlalpan 3465, Sta. Ursula Coapa, Coyoacan, 04650 Ciudad de Mexico, Mexico
- Capacity: 87,523
- Opened: 1966
- Field Dimensions: 105 m x 68 m
- Home Teams: Mexico national team, Club America, Cruz Azul
- Proposed World Cup Round: Opening Match
Estadio Azteca is a name synonymous with footballing legend. This iconic stadium has witnessed some of the most memorable moments in World Cup history, including Pelé’s third World Cup victory in 1970 and Diego Maradona’s “Hand of God” goal and “Goal of the Century” in 1986. Estadio Azteca is unique in becoming the first stadium to host matches in three men’s World Cups. Recent renovations, partly for NFL games, have reduced its capacity but it remains a cathedral of football.
Major Events Hosted: Beyond its World Cup legacy, Estadio Azteca has hosted countless major events, from concerts by Michael Jackson and U2 to NFL games. It is the spiritual home of Mexican football and a must-visit for any football fan.
MONTERREY (Guadalupe, Nuevo Leon)
- Venue: Estadio BBVA
- Address: Av Pablo Livas 2011, Col. La Pastora, 67140 Guadalupe, NL, Mexico
- Capacity: 53,460
- Opened: 2015
- Field Dimensions: 105 m x 68 m
- Home Team: Monterrey
- Proposed World Cup Round: Round of 16
Estadio BBVA, Mexico’s newest football stadium, is a modern and impressive venue. Opened in 2015, it has quickly become a favorite among Liga MX fans and is home to the successful Monterrey club. Despite its modern amenities and LEED environmental design award, it is yet to host a Mexican men’s national team match.
Major Events Hosted: Estadio BBVA is set to co-host the CONCACAF W Championship in July 2022. It has also hosted concerts, including Justin Bieber’s Purpose World Tour in 2017.
GUADALAJARA (Zapopan, Jalisco)
Estadio Akron, home of Chivas, a stadium with unique architecture and a vibrant atmosphere, selected for the 2026 World Cup in Guadalajara.
- Venue: Estadio Akron
- Address: Av Circuito JVC 2800, El Bajio, 45019 Zapopan, JAL, Mexico
- Capacity: 48,071
- Opened: 2010
- Field Dimensions: 105 m x 68 m
- Home Team: Chivas
- Proposed World Cup Round: Round of 16
Estadio Akron, home of Chivas, is known for its distinctive architecture, resembling a volcano. It opened in 2010 with a friendly match between Chivas and Manchester United, marking Javier Hernandez’s transfer to the English club. While the Mexican men’s national team has played here only once, Estadio Akron provides an intimate and lively setting for football matches.
Major Events Hosted: Estadio Akron hosted eight matches of the 2011 U-17 World Cup and served as the main venue for the 2011 Pan American Games, including the opening and closing ceremonies and all football matches.
Venues in Canada
Canada completes the trio of host nations for where is the World Cup 2026, bringing two dynamic cities to the global stage. These venues represent Canada’s growing football culture and its ability to host major international events.
VANCOUVER, BRITISH COLUMBIA
- Venue: BC Place
- Address: 777 Pacific Blvd, Vancouver, BC V6B 4Y8
- Capacity: 54,600
- Opened: 1983
- Field Dimensions: 107m x 69m
- Home Teams: Vancouver Whitecaps (MLS), BC Lions (CFL)
- Proposed World Cup Round: Round of 16
BC Place has already hosted a FIFA World Cup final – the 2015 Women’s World Cup final, where the U.S. women’s national team triumphed over Japan. Located in downtown Vancouver, BC Place is easily accessible and surrounded by vibrant city life. While BC Place historically used artificial turf, it will install natural grass for the 2026 World Cup to meet FIFA requirements.
Major Events Hosted: BC Place is a versatile venue, hosting the annual Canada Sevens rugby tournament, the 2010 Winter Olympics opening and closing ceremonies, and the 2011 Paralympics. It has also hosted NFL games and major concerts.
TORONTO, ONTARIO
BMO Field, home of Toronto FC and Toronto Argonauts, a venue expanded and ready to welcome World Cup matches in Toronto.
- Venue: BMO Field
- Address: 170 Princes Blvd, Toronto, ON M6K 3CS
- Capacity: 45,500 (forecasted 40,100 for World Cup seating)
- Opened: 2007
- Field Dimensions: 105 m x 68 m
- Home Teams: Toronto FC (MLS), Toronto Argonauts (CFL)
- Proposed World Cup Round: Round of 16
BMO Field, located near the heart of Canada’s largest city, was expanded in anticipation of major events, including the 2026 World Cup. While it wasn’t part of the 2015 Women’s World Cup due to hosting the Pan American Games, it has hosted matches for the U-20 men’s and women’s World Cups. Further expansions are planned to increase capacity for 2026. Known for its fan-friendly atmosphere and in-stadium poutine, BMO Field offers a distinctly Canadian experience.
Major Events Hosted: BMO Field has hosted various sporting events, including the 2016 CFL Grey Cup final and MLS Cup finals in 2016 and 2017. It was a key venue for the 2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the 2014 FIFA U-20 Women’s World Cup, proving its capability to host international football tournaments.
In conclusion, where is the World Cup 2026? It will be spread across these 16 vibrant cities in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, each venue offering unique character and world-class facilities. The FIFA World Cup 2026 is poised to be a landmark event, showcasing the best of North American hospitality and passion for football on a global stage.
