The 2026 FIFA World Cup has commenced, marking a significant expansion of the tournament. This edition features a record-breaking 48 participating nations, hosted across three countries – the United States, Canada, and Mexico – and spanning 16 cities. A total of 104 matches will be played throughout the competition. The event is anticipated to draw millions of traveling fans and a global television audience estimated at four billion viewers. The tournament signifies the largest sporting spectacle globally, with extensive media coverage from thousands of journalists. This World Cup represents a new era for the competition due to its increased scale and broadened international participation.