Today, March 4, 2026, marks exactly 100 days to the kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the largest edition of the tournament in history.
The 23rd edition of the global showpiece will be historic in many ways. For the first time ever, 48 teams will compete, expanding from the traditional 32-nation format. It will also be the first World Cup to be hosted by three countries — , and the — across 16 vibrant host cities.
Record Participation and Global Reach
A total of 206 national teams began the qualification journey, but only 45 have secured their places alongside the three host nations. As of the 100-day countdown milestone, 42 teams have already qualified, including four debutants: , , and .
From Africa, qualified teams include , , , , , , and .
Seven former world champions have already secured qualification — , , , , , and — while four-time champions remain in contention through the European play-offs.
Notably, 16 of the 42 qualified teams did not feature at the 2022 edition, signaling a fresh and diverse competitive field. Countries like return after 52 years, while , and make their first appearances since 1998.
One Tournament, Three Nations
The tournament is expected to attract approximately six million fans inside stadiums, with nearly six billion people projected to engage with content across television, digital, streaming and social platforms.
Beyond the 16 host cities, 48 Team Base Camps will serve as “home away from home” for participating nations during the group stage. These camps will allow teams to train and prepare while spreading the tournament’s economic and social impact across communities throughout North America.
Economic and Social Impact
According to projections, the 2026 World Cup could generate up to USD 40.9 billion in gross domestic product globally, deliver over USD 8 billion in social benefits and support nearly 824,000 full-time equivalent jobs worldwide. The event is widely regarded as the largest single-sport spectacle on the planet.
Ticketing, Hospitality and Volunteers
Demand for tickets has been overwhelming. The final sales phase will open in April, with tickets available on a first-come, first-served basis. An official resale platform is also operational for eligible ticket holders.
Hospitality packages have already been purchased by fans in more than 100 countries and all 50 US states, making it the most successful hospitality programme in FIFA history.
The volunteer programme is entering its next phase, with role-specific training sessions set to begin this month as thousands prepare to assist in delivering the global event.
Visa and Travel Advisory
Fans planning to attend must secure valid travel documents and visas where required. Authorities have emphasized that match tickets do not automatically guarantee entry into host countries, and supporters are encouraged to apply early and ensure passport validity extends well beyond travel dates.
With just 100 days remaining, anticipation continues to build worldwide as the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to redefine the scale, diversity and global reach of football’s greatest tournament.
