The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially kicked off on August 30 in Mexico City, marking the largest tournament in FIFA history with 48 teams competing across three host nations [1]. Fans will experience a new dynamic pricing model for tickets, while host cities are managing significant costs to stage the event [1]. Organizers expect the tournament to generate between $11 billion and $13 billion in revenue [1].
The expanded format is intended to accommodate more nations, spreading matches across Mexico, the United States, and Canada. Mexico City, as the opening site, will host some of the earliest games, setting the tone for a tournament that brings soccer to a broader global audience than ever before [1].
David Gura remarked on the economic aspects, stating the event highlights "who stands to profit the most from the people’s game," drawing attention to the commercial scale behind the tournament [1]. Host countries have invested heavily in infrastructure and facilities to support the large influx of teams and spectators.
As the competition progresses, teams will travel among the three countries for group and knockout stages, navigating logistics and a complex schedule. The new financial models for fans and organizers alike mark a significant change from previous World Cups.
The next major update will come as group stage matches begin to take shape in the coming days, with the tournament continuing through November to determine the 2026 champion [1].
