The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins June 11 in Mexico City and runs through July 19, when the final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. It is the largest World Cup ever staged, featuring 48 teams, 16 venues across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and a total of 80 matches, according to a report by CNET.
The tournament introduces a new format, with 12 groups of four teams competing in an opening league phase. Every match will be broadcast live in the United States on either Fox or FS1, which hold exclusive English-language rights to the event.
The opening ceremony and first match, Mexico vs. South Africa, take place at Estadio Azteca in Mexico City on June 11. Argentina enters as the defending champion after winning the tournament in Qatar in 2024.
France, led by Kylian Mbappé, and Spain, coached by Luis de la Fuente, are considered joint favorites this time. The tournament is also expected to serve as a farewell stage for two of soccer's most recognized players. Lionel Messi will represent Argentina, and Cristiano Ronaldo will captain Portugal. Fans will also watch emerging stars including Spain's Lamine Yamal and Türkiye's Arda Güler.
For cord-cutters, Fox launched its direct-to-consumer streaming service, Fox One, in August of last year. It starts at $20 a month or $200 a year and includes Fox Sports, FS1, FS2, Fox Deportes, B1G, and local Fox stations. New subscribers can access a three-day free trial.
Several major live TV streaming services also carry both Fox and FS1. YouTube TV's standard plan costs $83 a month and includes both channels. Fubo offers access through its Pro Plan at $74 a month. DirecTV's MySports package includes both channels and is available to new subscribers free for five days, then at $50 a month for the first two months before reverting to $65 a month.
Spanish-language broadcast rights are held separately, with options available for viewers who prefer Spanish commentary.
A full schedule of all 104 matches, including kickoff times and US television broadcast listings, is available online.
