World Cup 2026 FAQ — Everything You Need to Know
Got questions about the 2026 FIFA World Cup or our simulator? Here are answers to the most frequently asked questions.
How many teams are in the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup features 48 teams — the largest in tournament history. This is an expansion from the 32-team format used from 1998 to 2022. Teams are divided into 12 groups of 4.
What is the format of the 2026 World Cup?
48 teams are drawn into 12 groups of 4. Each team plays 3 group matches. The top 2 teams from each group (24 total) advance to a 32-team knockout bracket: Round of 32, Round of 16, Quarter-finals, Semi-finals, and the Final. There are 104 matches in total.
Where is the 2026 World Cup being held?
The 2026 World Cup is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico across 16 venues. The United States hosts 11 venues (including the final at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey), Mexico hosts 3 venues, and Canada hosts 2 venues.
When does the 2026 World Cup start and end?
The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The opening match takes place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, and the final is at MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.
Who are the favorites to win the 2026 World Cup?
The top favorites include Spain (defending Euro champions), France (2018 winners, 2022 runners-up), England, Brazil, Argentina (2022 champions), and Germany. Dark horses include Colombia, Japan, the United States (as co-hosts), and Portugal.
How does the World Cup 2026 simulator work?
Our simulator lets you predict every match of the 2026 World Cup. You progress through three stages: Continental Playoffs (deciding the final qualifying spots), Group Stage (all 36 group matches), and Knockout Rounds (Round of 32 through the Final). For each match, you can enter an exact score or pick a winner and let the app generate a realistic scoreline.
Is the World Cup 2026 simulator free?
Yes, completely free. No sign-up or account is required to simulate. You can optionally create a free account to save your predictions and share them with a unique link.
Can I share my World Cup predictions?
Yes! After completing a simulation, you can save your predictions and receive a unique shareable link. Anyone with that link can see your full bracket — including your group stage results, knockout predictions, and predicted champion.
How are realistic scores generated?
When you pick a winner without entering an exact score, the simulator generates a realistic scoreline weighted by FIFA rankings and historical match data. Higher-ranked teams are more likely to score more goals and win by larger margins, but upsets can still happen.
What happens if a group stage match ends in a draw?
In the group stage, draws are allowed. Both teams receive 1 point each. In the knockout rounds, if a match is tied after 90 minutes, it goes to extra time (2 x 15 minutes) and then a penalty shootout if still level.
How many teams advance from each group?
The top 2 teams from each of the 12 groups advance to the knockout stage. This means 24 teams qualify from the group stage to form a 32-team bracket. Group standings are determined by points, then goal difference, then goals scored.
Will there be a Round of 32?
Yes. The 2026 World Cup introduces a Round of 32 for the first time in tournament history. With 24 group qualifiers plus bracket structure, the knockout stage begins with 32 teams — 16 matches in the first knockout round.
How is the 2026 format different from 2022?
The 2022 World Cup had 32 teams in 8 groups of 4, with the top 2 from each group advancing to a 16-team knockout bracket. The 2026 edition expands to 48 teams in 12 groups, with a 32-team knockout bracket. This adds a Round of 32 and increases total matches from 64 to 104.
Can I simulate on my phone?
Yes. The World Cup 2026 Simulator is a progressive web app (PWA) that works on any device — desktop, tablet, or mobile. You can even add it to your home screen for an app-like experience.
Ready to Predict?
Now you know everything about the 2026 World Cup — time to make your predictions! Our free World Cup 2026 Simulator lets you predict every match and share your bracket.