World Cup 2026 Kickoff date, First match time and Opening Ceremony full details

The Wait Is Almost Over

The biggest football festival on the planet is just months away as the FIFA World Cup 2026 prepares to kick off across North America

Official Start Date Revealed

The tournament will officially start on Thursday, June 11, 2026, returning to the traditional June–July window after the winter 2022 edition

First Match Details

Co-hosts Mexico will play the first World Cup match at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City against a team to be decided in the group-stage draw

Group Stage & Match Timing

The opening match kickoff time has not yet been announced. Final match schedules and timings will be confirmed after the group-stage draw on December 5

Opening Ceremony Update

FIFA has not yet revealed details of the opening ceremony. However, it is expected to take place earlier on June 11 at Estadio Azteca, before the first match

When & Where Is the Final?

The grand final will be played on Sunday, July 19, 2026 at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey

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