The 2026 FIFA World Cup finally gets underway this week, and you can follow all of the latest breaking news before Thursday’s opening group-stage game with The Athletic. We’d also love to hear from you before Mexico vs South Africa at the Estadio Azteca on Thursday. Get in touch by emailing live@theathletic.com.

The World Cup draw took place on Dec. 5 and the 48 teams were slotted into 12 groups of four. The teams were given a final roster deadline of June 1, so we already know who will be representing each country (click on the teams below to see each roster).

Keep up with the final World Cup warm-up matches on Tuesday including Messi in SEC country.

The first Miami match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins in a week. Current forecasts indicate a high chance of rain.

It’s almost here. After years of talk, preparation and anticipation, the 2026 World Cup is now just right around the corner.

Public roads and trails around Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara will be closed in the coming weeks for FIFA World Cup matches, according to the city. Related Articles No World Cup ticket? San Jose plans free watch parties for every match World Cup fever should hit Bay Area despite lackluster draws FIFA’s biggest World Cup may leave host cities with big regrets Iran’s soccer team arrives in Mexico for training ahead of the World Cup World Cup 2026: Here are 10 players to keep an eye on in Bay Area matches The closures are needed to ensure the safety and security of games played at the stadium,

With about 300,000 people expected to visit Atlanta for the city's eight World Cup matches, you'll want to avoid the accompanying traffic in and around Downtown over the next month. Why it matters: Dodging Atlanta traffic is stressful on a normal day,