World Cup 2026 set to include a new last-32 stage in extended tournament

The finals, which will be held between the USA, Canada and Mexico will be the first to feature 48 teams.

EXTENDED TOURNAMENT: Argentina captain Lionel Messi lifts the FIFA World Cup trophy following victory over France via a penalty shootout in the FIFA World Cup Final match at the Lusail Stadium in Lusail, Qatar. Picture date: Sunday December 18, 2022.

The 2026 World Cup finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico are set to feature 104 games, including a new round-of-32 stage, with plans for three-team groups poised to be abandoned.

The finals will be the first to feature 48 teams, with the FIFA Council set to approve the format at a meeting in Kigali, Rwanda, later on Tuesday.