World Cup 2026 won't look like any World Cup before it — 48 national teams instead of 32, three host countries instead of one, 104 matches instead of 64, and in summer instead of winter. The differences between 2026 and 2022 are dramatic, and anyone planning to travel must understand them.
The biggest change: from 32 national teams in 2022 to 48 national teams in 2026. This means 104 matches compared to 64. The new format includes 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top 2 teams from each group advancing, plus the 8 best third-placed teams — a total of 32 national teams in the round of 32.
More national teams means more options, more surprises, and more tickets. For Israeli fans, this means there are more matches to choose from, more days you can travel, and more stages at which you can grab interesting tickets. Smaller national teams from Africa, Asia and CONCACAF will also get more spots — meaning a truly global mosaic.
World Cup 2022 was held in November-December — the first time in history the tournament wasn't played in summer — due to the extreme heat in Qatar. This disrupted league seasons, caused confusion in the calendar, but also pleasantly surprised with high-quality matches. In 2026, tradition returns: the tournament will open on 11 June and end on 19 July.
The geographic difference is no less significant: Qatar is a small country where all the stadiums were within an hour's reach of the city. In 2026, the matches are spread across the USA, Canada and Mexico — meaning domestic flights, complex logistical planning, and richer tourism options. No more "hop on the bus" — in 2026 every host city is a completely different experience. Miami is different from Seattle, New York is different from Mexico City — and each has its own atmosphere, crowd and culture.
Q: How many national teams will take part in World Cup 2026 compared to 2022?
A: 48 national teams in 2026 compared to 32 in 2022 — a 50% increase.
Q: How many matches will there be at World Cup 2026?
A: 104 matches in 2026 compared to 64 in 2022.
Q: Why was World Cup 2022 played in winter?
A: Because of the extreme summer heat in Qatar, the tournament was moved to November-December. In 2026 it returns to the regular summer format — June-July.
World Cup 2026 is the biggest in history — don't miss it. Sports packages and tickets for upcoming matches through TikTik — from home to the stadium, in one click.
