How does the new 2026 FIFA World Cup format work?

The FIFA World Cup is set for its biggest change in a generation. For the 2026 tournament, the number of teams will jump from 32 to 48, altering the competition's format and creating a new set of opportunities and challenges for the world of soccer. Here is what you need to know.

Trump says 2026 World Cup draw to happen at Kennedy Center in DC

President Donald Trump said Friday that the 2026 World Cup draw will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. 

Logistics of the Cup| Houston's Soccer HQ
video

Anthony and Carolina speak with David Fletcher, the GM of Lone Star Sports and Entertainment, the company responsible for hosting major events in Houston, including the Gold Cup. They discuss what it takes to host large sporting events in Houston. Plus, they speak with the Chief Safety and Security Officer for the Houston Host Committee, Tommy Calabro, about the safety measures being taken to prepare Houston to host big matches.

Alexi Lalas talks USA Soccer + Genuine Cup in Houston
video

Join Houston's Soccer HQ as we sit down with USA Soccer legend Alexi Lalas to discuss the nation's ambitions for global success in the sport. Additionally, we have an inspiring conversation with the founder of the Genuine Cup, a groundbreaking soccer tournament designed for differently-abled athletes.

2026 World Cup: Here's when you can apply for tickets

The highly anticipated soccer tournament begins on June 11, 2026, and will be broadcast on FOX and FOX Sports.

President Trump, first lady attend FIFA Club World Cup final

President Trump watched Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain compete at the FIFA Club World Cup final Sunday in New Jersey.

Soccer 101 w/ the interns | Houston's Soccer HQ
video

Carolina explores the fascinating world of soccer with a detailed explanation from the FOX26 interns. Learn about the game's rules, strategies, and nuances. Additionally, enjoy their thorough recap of the exhilarating Gold Cup Final between the USA and Mexico.

Houston's Soccer HQ Welcomes Houston Dash and Houston Dynamo Leadership
video

Join us as Houston Dynamo President of Soccer, Pat Onstad, and Houston Dash President of Women's Soccer, Angela Hucles Mangano, discuss their clubs' impact and how their players are making waves on the national stage.

Chris Canetti talks soccer coming to Houston | Houston's Soccer HQ
video

Hosts Carolina Sanchez and Anthony Antoine and reporter Jonathan Mejia talk everything soccer in the launch of our new show Houston's Soccer HQ. We're talking with Chris Canetti about massive soccer events coming to Houston.

World Cup 2026: Here's what you need to know

Next year’s prestigious tournament will feature 48 teams, and the U.S. is one of the host countries for the games.

What to expect at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
video

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is one year away. FOX 26's Nate Griffin talks with Chris Canetti, president of the 2026 FIFA World Cup Houston Host Committee, about all the work that goes into hosting the games and what fans can expect.

World Cup Houston
video

Caroline & Rashi talk to the Artist who created the official Houston poster for the FIFA World Cup!

The next World Cup is in North America; here's who's qualified so far

The 2026 World Cup expands to 48 teams and will be hosted across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada. Japan and New Zealand have already qualified. All matches will air on FOX.

FIFA World Cup 2026 just 500 days away in Houston

We're now 500 days away from FIFA World Cup 2026 taking place in the City of Houston.

Update on FIFA World Cup preparations for Houston
video

Houston leaders provide an update on the preparations being made for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with the event being 500 days away. Houston will host seven matches, which is set to begin on June 11, 2026, at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.

World Cup 2026: Art of Soccer campaign
video

Houston is a host city for the FIFA World Cup 2026 and they're hoping to raise money for the soccer community through the Art of Soccer campaign. FOX 26's Sally MacDonald spoke to Daniel Gotera with the Harris County-Houston Sports Authority about how people and companies can help support the campaign.

Calling all Houston artists: Design the official FIFA World Cup 26 poster!

The beautiful game is coming to Space City, and the FIFA World Cup 26 Houston Host Committee wants YOU to capture the magic! This is your chance to showcase your artistic talent on a global stage and create the official poster for Houston's World Cup experience.

Two years from first FIFA World Cup 2026 match
video

We are officially two years away from the first match of the FIFA World Cup. Local leaders give an update on how the city is getting ready to host seven matches at NRG.