Will Antoine Griezmann make it to the 2026 World Cup with France? We analyze statistics, current events, and his role with Les Bleus on their way to the most important tournament on the planet.
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WHY IS THE 2026 WORLD CUP BEING HELD IN NORTH AMERICA?
The 2026 World Cup will be unlike any other. For the first time, three countries will co-host the biggest tournament in football. The United States, Mexico, and Canada not only won the bid against Morocco, but will also mark a milestone with the expansion to 48 teams. In this article, we explain clearly and engagingly why the 2026 World Cup will be played in North America, what went into FIFA's decision, and how this tournament aims to change the history of football forever.
A bit of football history and politics
The selection of North America as host of the 2026 World Cup was neither a coincidence nor simply due to geography. It was the result of a combination of history, political strategy, infrastructure, and effective international lobbying. It all officially began in 2017, when the United States, Mexico, and Canada submitted a joint bid called “United 2026.”
At that time, FIFA was looking to reinvent its image after the 2015 corruption scandals. Choosing a strong, transparent bid with existing infrastructure became a priority. Morocco also competed, but its proposal required building most of the stadiums from scratch. North America, on the other hand, offered modern stadiums, prior experience (such as the successful 1994 USA World Cup), and political stability. The decisive vote: On June 13, 2018, in Moscow, FIFA held the historic vote. United 2026 won with 134 votes against Morocco's 65. It was the first time that all FIFA-affiliated federations voted openly. This reflected global support for the North American project, which promised record revenues for world football. 3 host countries: Mexico (for the third time), the United States, and Canada. 16 host cities: including Mexico City, Toronto, and New York. 48 teams for the first time in history. Revenue promise: more than $11 billion estimated. Mexico will make history as the first country to host three World Cups (1970, 1986, and 2026), while Canada will make its debut as the men's host. Undoubtedly, a blend of tradition, economic power, and a vision for the future.
Football and Logistical Reasons
Beyond politics, there were clear, football-related reasons for bringing the tournament to North America. The 1994 World Cup, held in the USA, still holds the record for total attendance with almost 3.6 million spectators. Why? Because the stadiums there are gigantic, comfortable, and equipped with state-of-the-art technology.
Canada has less World Cup history, but it proved at the 2015 Women's World Cup that it can organize world-class events. And Mexico, well, it's pure football heart.
Their fans are among the most passionate on the planet, and that earns them points both on the field and on social media.
Infrastructure that is already ready
The United States has more than 20 stadiums with a capacity exceeding 60,000 people
Mexico will use iconic stadiums such as Azteca, BBVA, and Akron
Toronto and Vancouver are ready with modern stadiums and proven logistics
Most venues have international airports and efficient urban transport
New stadiums do not need to be built, which reduces costs and risks
In addition, FIFA wanted a more global World Cup, with new rules: 48 teams, 80 matches, and a first round with groups of 3. This requires a top-level logistical system, and North America more than meets the requirements.
Fun fact: on average, the stadiums selected in the US have 35% more capacity than those for Qatar 2022. This could break all attendance and revenue records.
Global Impact and What to Expect
The 2026 World Cup will not only be a football spectacle. It also seeks to mark a turning point in how a global event is organized and experienced. The combination of three countries, multiple languages, and distinct football cultures will result in a diverse, inclusive World Cup with a strong commercial focus.
FIFA expects to generate more than $11 billion in revenue, and part of that will be invested in football development in emerging countries.
In addition, more than 5 million people are expected to attend the matches, and hundreds of millions more will follow them on social media.
What we can anticipate
A strong presence of digital content: TikTok, YouTube Shorts, and Instagram Reels are expected to be key to World Cup consumption
More access for the public: more varied tickets, fan zones, and more flexible prices
Record participation of African and Asian teams, thanks to the expansion to 48 teams
The possible last World Cup for stars like Messi or Modrić, depending on their decisions
An effect An estimated positive economic impact of over 3 billion dollars for the host cities. And of course, the football legacy. In the US, soccer is expected to gain a stronger foothold among popular sports. In Mexico, the aim is to renovate stadiums and develop local talent. And in Canada, to consolidate its rising national team program. The best is yet to come. The 2026 World Cup promises to be a true global celebration that not only celebrates football, but also the union between neighboring cultures that, although different, share the same passion for the game.
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