The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in tournament history, featuring a record 48 teams and running from June 12, 2026 (IST) to July 20, 2026 (IST). Hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, the expanded tournament replaces the previous 32-team layout and introduces a new competition structure that significantly increases the number of matches and opportunities for nations worldwide.
Under the new format, 12 groups of four teams each will replace the old eight-group arrangement. The top two teams from every group — plus the eight best third-placed sides — will advance to a newly created Round of 32, which precedes the traditional Round of 16. That change means more knockout fixtures and a broader pathway for surprise qualifiers to make deep runs in the competition.
Staging the World Cup across three countries will spread matches and venues widely across North America, amplifying travel and logistical demands but also offering fans more host cities and stadium experiences. The tournament’s record field and revised schedule aim to broaden global participation and showcase football to an even larger audience.
The World Cup’s trophies trace the tournament’s history. The original award, known as the Victory Trophy, was used from 1930 until 1946 and drew its name from Nike, the Greek goddess of victory. From 1946 to 1970 the prize was renamed the Jules Rimet Trophy, in honour of the former FIFA president credited with founding the World Cup; after Brazil’s third triumph in 1970, that trophy was permanently awarded to the nation. Since 1974 the official prize has been the FIFA World Cup Trophy, designed by Silvio Gazzaniga and still presented to the champions today.
Original Source: https://theshillongtimes.com/2026/06/10/the-long-road-to-football-immortality/
Category: SPORTS
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Publish Date: 2026-06-10 00:23:00
