The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the biggest edition yet, expanding to 48 teams and 104 matches across three host nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. For the first time in history, the tournament will span 16 world-class stadiums, the most ever for a single World Cup. From iconic historic venues like Mexico City’s Estadio Azteca to cutting-edge NFL arenas in the U.S., these FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums promise unforgettable soccer action, electric atmospheres, and a celebration of North American sports culture.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip to catch multiple games or dreaming of the final at MetLife Stadium, this guide breaks down every venue, including capacities, renovations, and must-know details. Get ready to explore the stadiums that will host the beautiful game from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Why 2026 Is a Game-Changer for World Cup Stadiums
This tri-nation bid, awarded to the U.S., Mexico, and Canada in 2018, leverages existing infrastructure to minimize new builds while maximizing fan experience. The U.S. will host the lion’s share (78 matches), with Canada and Mexico each handling 13. Stadiums are grouped into Eastern, Central, and Western regions to cut down on travel time—perfect for following your favorite team without jet lag.
Many venues are undergoing upgrades, from field conversions to temporary seating expansions, ensuring FIFA’s standards for natural grass pitches and accessibility. Plus, expect halftime spectacles, like the confirmed show at the final inspired by the Super Bowl. With capacities ranging from 45,000 to over 100,000, these stadiums blend soccer heritage with modern amenities.
Full List of FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadiums
Here’s a comprehensive rundown of all 16 World Cup 2026 stadiums, organized by host country. We’ve included capacities (post-renovations where applicable), key matches, and unique features to help you pick your must-visit spots.
United States: The Heart of the Tournament (11 Venues)
The U.S. dominates with diverse venues from coast to coast, many shared with NFL and MLS teams. AT&T Stadium in Dallas will host a record nine matches, including knockout rounds.
| Stadium Name (FIFA Name) | City | Capacity | Key Matches & Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| AT&T Stadium (Dallas Stadium) | Arlington, TX | 94,000 | 9 matches (most of any venue), including group stage and knockouts. Home of the Dallas Cowboys; $295M renovations for wider field and suites. |
| MetLife Stadium (New York New Jersey Stadium) | East Rutherford, NJ | 82,500 | Final (July 19); 8 total matches. NFL’s Giants/Jets home; removing 1,740 seats for FIFA field size; halftime show confirmed. |
| Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta Stadium) | Atlanta, GA | 75,000 | 8 matches, including semis. Falcons/United FC base; retractable roof and sustainable design. |
| NRG Stadium (Houston Stadium) | Houston, TX | 72,220 | 7 matches. Texans home; retractable roof, state-of-the-art AV; part of NRG Park entertainment complex. |
| GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium (Kansas City Stadium) | Kansas City, MO | 76,000 | 6 matches. Chiefs/Sporting KC venue; Guinness World Record for loudest crowd—expect eardrum-shattering roars! |
| Gillette Stadium (Boston Stadium) | Foxborough, MA | 65,878 | 7 matches, including quarterfinal. Patriots/Revolution home; ongoing renovations for better sightlines and concourses. |
| Hard Rock Stadium (Miami Stadium) | Miami Gardens, FL | 64,767 | 7 matches, including third-place playoff and quarterfinal. Dolphins/Inter Miami base; $350M 2016 reno added roof and video boards. |
| Lincoln Financial Field (Philadelphia Stadium) | Philadelphia, PA | 69,796 | 5 matches. Eagles/Union home; vibrant fanbase known for passionate support. |
| Lumen Field (Seattle Stadium) | Seattle, WA | 69,000 | 6 matches. Seahawks/Sounders venue; “12th Man” atmosphere rivals Europe’s best. |
| Levi’s Stadium (San Francisco Bay Area Stadium) | Santa Clara, CA | 68,500 | 6 matches. 49ers home; sustainable features and hosting Super Bowl 2026 too. |
| SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles Stadium) | Inglewood, CA | 70,000 | 8 matches, including U.S. opener (June 12) and quarterfinal. Rams/Chargers base; translucent roof, massive video board; field bungalow suites for VIPs. |
Mexico: Soccer’s Spiritual Home (3 Venues)
Mexico’s venues bring rich history, with Estadio Azteca making it the first stadium to host three World Cups (1970, 1986, 2026). All are Liga MX homes undergoing tweaks for natural grass.
| Stadium Name (FIFA Name) | City | Capacity | Key Matches & Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Estadio Azteca (Mexico City Stadium) | Mexico City | 87,523 | Opening match (June 11, Mexico vs. opponent); 7 total. Iconic site of legends like Pelé’s last game; major renovations for suites and accessibility. |
| Estadio BBVA (Monterrey Stadium) | Monterrey | 53,500 | 6 matches. Rayados home; modern build (2015) with LED lighting and tech-forward design. |
| Estadio Akron (Guadalajara Stadium) | Guadalajara | 49,850 | 5 matches. Chivas base; only venue without a knockout match; vibrant “Pearl of the West” atmosphere. |
Canada: A Fresh Northern Twist (2 Venues)
Canada debuts as a World Cup host with upgraded stadiums emphasizing community and sustainability. BMO Field’s massive reno is a highlight.
| Stadium Name (FIFA Name) | City | Capacity | Key Matches & Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| BMO Field (Toronto Stadium) | Toronto, ON | 45,736 | 6 matches, including Canada opener (June 12). TFC home; $150M CAD expansion adds 17,000 seats and 70+ suites. |
| BC Place (Vancouver Stadium) | Vancouver, BC | 54,500 | 7 matches. Whitecaps venue; retractable roof from 2011 reno; stunning mountain views. |
Renovations and Upgrades: Getting World Cup-Ready
To meet FIFA’s specs, at least nine stadiums (mostly domed NFL ones) are installing natural grass overlays by May 2026. Highlights include:
- Estadio Azteca: $200M+ overhaul for seating, lighting, and pitch—preserving its UNESCO-recognized heritage.
- BMO Field: From 30,000 to 45,000 seats, plus new north-end structure.
- Gillette Stadium: Concourse widenings and tech upgrades for seamless fan flow.
- SoFi Stadium: Custom grass trays for quick installs; potential field-level suites sold as World Cup firsts.
These changes ensure top-tier experiences, from shaded seating in sunny spots like Miami to heated enclosures in Toronto.
Iconic Stadium Spotlights: Where History Meets 2026
- Estadio Azteca: The “Cathedral of Football” witnessed Maradona’s “Hand of God.” Its 2026 opener will echo 1970’s magic.
- AT&T Stadium: Not just massive—its 295-foot HD screen will beam replays like never before.
- Arrowhead Stadium: Prepare for 142.2 decibels of noise; it’s louder than a jet engine!
Planning Your FIFA World Cup 2026 Stadium Adventure
With matches spread across regions, bundle games in clusters: East Coast (Boston to Miami), Central (Dallas to Mexico City), or West (Vancouver to LA). Tickets go on sale post-draw in late 2025—register at FIFA.com now. Pro tip: Book hotels early near transit hubs like Secaucus Junction for MetLife access.
Safety note: Some Florida venues face heat risks, but FIFA’s protocols include cooling zones. For eco-conscious fans, venues like Levi’s emphasize green energy.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 stadiums aren’t just places to watch soccer—they’re gateways to North America’s soul. From Mexico’s passion to Canada’s cool vibes and U.S. spectacle, 2026 will redefine the tournament. Which venue are you most excited for? Drop a comment below, and start mapping your journey to the beautiful game!
Sources: FIFA official announcements, Olympics.com, Wikipedia, and Roadtrips.com (as of October 2025).
