FIFA World Cup 2026 · last reviewed 26 September 2026

FIFA World Cup 2026 in World Cup history

FIFA staged the first World Cup in 1930 in Uruguay. The 1942 and 1946 tournaments were not held because of the Second World War. The men’s field was 32 teams from 1998 through 2022 (Qatar). 2026 is the 23rd FIFA World Cup and the first hosted by three countries. This page does not invent a 2026 winner. For the list through 2022 use our winners page and the facts desk.

Who this page is for

Exam and GK readers who need edition numbers and host firsts.

What this page is not

Not a copy of a FIFA news article.

FAQs

Which World Cup edition was 2026?

The 23rd FIFA World Cup.

When was the first FIFA World Cup?

1930, in Uruguay.

Which World Cups were cancelled?

1942 and 1946, during the Second World War.

Sources and references

Last reviewed 26 September 2026. Dates, venues and format were checked against FIFA’s public tournament information. We do not invent 2026 scores or a champion.

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