With the FIFA World Cup draw set for Washington, the footballing world's focus sharpens on the unprecedented 2026 tournament. For the first time, the event will span three nations and feature an expanded 48-team format, making the choice of host venues more critical than ever for teams plotting their path to glory.
The United States will be the primary host, staging 78 of the 104 matches, while Canada and Mexico will each host 13 games. The historic campaign kicks off on June 11 at Mexico City's iconic Azteca Stadium and concludes with the final on July 19 at the MetLife Stadium in New York/New Jersey.
Canadian Hosts: Classic and Contemporary
Canada's two venues offer a blend of tradition and modernity. BMO Field in Toronto, the national football stadium, is undergoing a £100 million renovation ahead of the tournament, adding 17,000 temporary seats. Opened in 2007, it's easily accessible and offers scenic lakeside views.
In contrast, BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, opened in 1983, is a forward-looking arena with a pioneering retractable roof. It boasts a rich history, having hosted the 2015 Women's World Cup final, where England's Lionesses triumphed.
Mexican Majesty: Altitude and History
Mexico presents three iconic venues, led by the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The 90,000-capacity arena is the only stadium to have hosted two World Cup finals (1970 and 1986) and was the stage for Diego Maradona's famous 'Hand of God' goal. Its 7,200ft altitude will challenge players' stamina.
Estadio Akron in Guadalajara is famed for its electric atmosphere as the home of Chivas, while the BBVA Stadium in Monterrey offers a stunning backdrop against the Cerro de la Silla mountain but will be one of the hottest host cities.
American Arenas: From Coast to Coast
The USA's selection showcases architectural marvels and sporting cathedrals. The Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta is noted for its artistic design and climate-controlled roof, while SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles—an inspiration for Manchester United's Old Trafford rebuild—features a vast canopy and integrated entertainment complex.
Historic Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City is renowned for its raucous atmosphere, and AT&T Stadium in Dallas impresses with its colossal 160-foot jumbotron. However, logistical challenges exist: MetLife Stadium in New York is criticised for poor transport links, and Hard Rock Stadium in Miami faces scrutiny after chaotic scenes at the 2024 Copa America final.
Other key venues include Boston's Gillette Stadium, Houston's NRG Stadium, Philadelphia's open-air Lincoln Financial Field, and Seattle's Lumen Field, which famously has an awkwardly shaped away dressing room. San Francisco's Levi's Stadium offers little shelter from the Californian sun.
As the draw approaches, teams will meticulously analyse these venues, considering climate, altitude, pitch conditions, and fan support. The 2026 World Cup promises not only a festival of football but a continent-wide journey through some of the most distinctive and demanding stadiums in the sport.
