MEXICO CITY — Organizers across the United States, Canada and Mexico continued preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup as the three co-hosts coordinated security, transportation and tournament operations for the largest edition of football's global showpiece, with knockout-stage matches now underway.
The expanded tournament, which began on June 11 and concludes on July 19, is the first FIFA World Cup to feature 48 teams and 104 matches spread across 16 host cities in the three North American nations. FIFA has said the new format requires unprecedented coordination among host governments, local organizing committees and security agencies.
Authorities in the host countries have continued adjusting operational plans as large crowds gather for matches and fan festivals. In Mexico City, officials announced tighter crowd-management measures ahead of the Round of 16 match between hosts Mexico and England following fatal incidents during public celebrations after Mexico's previous victory.
President Claudia Sheinbaum urged supporters to celebrate responsibly, while Mayor Clara Brugada said capacity controls, road closures and adjustments to public transportation would be implemented around major viewing areas to improve public safety.
FIFA has also monitored weather conditions affecting tournament logistics. Organizers considered changes to kickoff times for matches in Mexico City because of forecasts of severe storms before confirming they would continue monitoring conditions in coordination with local authorities and participating teams.
The tournament represents the first men's World Cup jointly hosted by three countries. FIFA has said the event required extensive planning for cross-border travel, team movements and fan services, with matches taking place across venues in Canada, Mexico and the United States. The governing body has described the competition as the largest World Cup in its history, both in participating teams and total matches.
Host cities have continued operating fan zones, transport networks and venue security plans as the competition progresses into the knockout phase. Teams have also adjusted travel and training schedules in response to operational considerations, including weather forecasts and match-specific security arrangements.
The World Cup final is scheduled for July 19 in the New York-New Jersey metropolitan area, while tournament organizers and host authorities say preparations will continue throughout the remaining matches to support teams, officials and spectators across the three host nations.
