The World Cup kicks off Thursday with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, launching a sprawling tournament of 48 teams that will last nearly six weeks.

When the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on June 11, 2026, matches will be played across 16 cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Sixteen stadiums in Mexico, Canada and the United States will stage the games during the first 48-team World Cup. RFI looks at the venues to be used between 11 June and 19 July.

After a rocky buildup with high ticket prices, delayed federal funding for host cities, and visa issues, the World Cup has arrived.