PHILADELPHIA, Pa. - The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature an expanded format that will significantly change the global soccer (football) landscape. This new structure provides increased opportunities for nations that have previously struggled to qualify for the tournament, giving more teams a chance to compete on the world stage.

The great expansion: a new blueprint for global football

What we know:

The 2026 World Cup will feature 48 teams, a significant increase from the previous 32-team format . This expansion aims to provide more opportunities for nations from Africa, Asia, and North America. The new structure includes 12 groups of four teams, with increased matches and a longer tournament duration.

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