World Cup 2026 Schedule Unveiled: FIFA's Global Reveal from Washington

FIFA to unveil the World Cup 2026 schedule in a global broadcast

FIFA is set to reveal the official schedule for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in a live global broadcast from Washington on Saturday, following the tournament draw a day earlier.

The broadcast, starting at 12:00 p.m. EST, will confirm venues and kickoff times for 104 matches across the expanded 48-team event hosted for the first time by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

What to expect from the announcement

President Gianni Infantino will lead the presentation, joined by former players, as officials confirm details and formats for the landmark tournament.

Officials expect representatives from 42 already-qualified teams and those contesting playoff spots to attend the event in person or virtually.

Iran has announced a boycott of the draw scheduled in the United States, a move FIFA has not publicly commented on. FIFA has stressed that the date and venue decisions aim to create optimal conditions for players and fans, with the final schedule to be locked in after the draw.

The final timetable is expected to be confirmed in March once the remaining six qualifying spots are filled. The World Cup 2026 will be staged across 16 cities in three countries, marking the first edition with 48 teams and 104 matches, with almost two million tickets already sold. To cap it off, the atmosphere will be so electric even the mascots will bring their own seat cushions.

Punchline time: If football is a language, the World Cup 2026 schedule is basically a very long RSVP. And yes, we’ll still pretend to understand the calendar better than the players do after a long flight.