The 2026 FIFA World Cup has turned football’s biggest stage into its most demanding logistical test yet, with 48 teams spread across Canada, Mexico and the United States navigating long distances, shifting climates and four time zones in pursuit of glory.
Unlike compact tournaments of the past, the expanded format has forced squads into constant movement, with FIFA assigning regional clusters to reduce travel strain. Still, for many teams, recovery time, flight schedules and environmental changes are proving as decisive as tactics on the pitch.
Türkiye feel the strain in the north
Türkiye head coach Vincenzo Montella pointed to the realities of the format after his side’s 2-0 opening loss to Australia in Vancouver.
With the squad based in Arizona, roughly 1,200 miles from their opening venue, Montella highlighted the toll of overnight travel and limited recovery time.
