2026 FIFA World Cup preparations: three-host format, expanded tournament, climate risks, and global perspectives

The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks the first time the tournament is hosted by three nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—and expanded to 48 teams and 104 matches. Coverage highlights the logistical reasons for the tri-nation bid, including existing infrastructure and the need for more venues due to the expanded format. The US will host the majority of games, including all high-stakes knockout matches. Off the pitch, the tournament faces challenges such as extreme heat risk in host cities, with climate scientists warning that human-induced warming makes unsafe temperatures more likely, while FIFA's heat postponement threshold is higher than player union recommendations. Meanwhile, streaming and broadcasting options are extensive, with various paid and free services available to viewers in the US. The tournament also showcases the global reach of football: despite Nigeria's absence, players with Nigerian roots feature prominently for several top nations. In a parallel development, the video game industry is experiencing a shake-up with new competitors challenging EA Sports' dominance. Political tensions have also emerged, including Iran's threat to abandon matches if political protests occur, and a controversy over Senegal's entry procedure that was later clarified.