Kathmandu: The 2026 FIFA World Cup officially began on Thursday, marking a historic chapter in international football. For the first time in the tournament's history, the World Cup is being jointly hosted by three countries — the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

The competition has also expanded significantly, with 48 national teams participating instead of the previous 32. A total of 104 matches will be played across 16 host cities during the month-long tournament.

New Format Brings More Teams to the Global Stage
The 48 participating teams have been divided into 12 groups in the opening phase of the competition. At the conclusion of the group stage, 32 teams will advance to the knockout rounds.

This expanded format has created opportunities for several nations to make their World Cup debuts and has increased global representation in football's biggest event.

Debutants and Returning Nations
Four countries — Cape Verde, Jordan, Uzbekistan, and Curaçao — are appearing at the World Cup for the first time. Meanwhile, Haiti has returned to the tournament after a gap of more than five decades, having last participated in 1974. Similarly, Austria, Norway, and Scotland have qualified for the World Cup for the first time since 1998.

Global Stars in the Spotlight
Football fans around the world will closely follow the performances of 1,248 players participating in the tournament. Particular attention will be focused on legendary stars Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, who remain among the most recognizable figures in world football.

Most Successful Nations in World Cup History
Since the inaugural World Cup in 1930, only eight nations have lifted football's most prestigious trophy.
-Brazil – 5 titles
-Germany – 4 titles
-Italy – 4 titles
-Argentina – 3 titles
-France – 2 titles
-Uruguay – 2 titles
-Spain – 1 title
-England – 1 title

Football World Awaits a New Champion
With an expanded field, new nations making their debut, and some of the sport's biggest stars taking part, the 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be one of the most competitive and widely followed tournaments in football history. Fans around the globe will now watch to see which nation emerges as the next world champion.