WORLD CUP 2026 OPENS ACROSS NORTH AMERICA AS RECORD CROWDS EXPECTED

MEXICO CITY (AP) — The 2026 FIFA World Cup is underway across North America, launching what organizers expect will be the largest and most-watched tournament in football history.

For the first time, the World Cup is being jointly hosted by three nations — the United States, Canada and Mexico — and features an expanded field of 48 teams. Tournament organizers say the format is expected to draw record attendance and television audiences from around the world.

Host cities have spent years preparing stadiums, transportation networks and security operations for the month-long event. Officials across the three countries reported heightened security measures as hundreds of thousands of supporters arrived for opening matches and related festivities.

The tournament comes at a time of growing global interest in football, particularly in North America, where investment in domestic leagues and international competitions has accelerated over the past decade. FIFA officials have described the event as a milestone for the sport's continued expansion.

Several teams enter the competition among the favorites, including defending champions Argentina, European powers France and Spain, and tournament regulars Brazil and Germany. Meanwhile, nations such as Norway are attracting attention after ending lengthy World Cup absences.

Businesses, tourism agencies and local governments are also anticipating significant economic benefits. Analysts project billions of dollars in spending tied to travel, hospitality and entertainment during the tournament.

Despite the celebratory atmosphere, organizers face challenges ranging from transportation logistics to extreme weather concerns in some host cities. FIFA and local authorities say contingency plans are in place to address operational issues should they arise.

The tournament is scheduled to conclude with the final match in the United States next month. By then, officials expect the competition to have become one of the largest sporting events ever staged.

As opening matches begin, fans across the globe are turning their attention to a tournament that promises historic scale, intense competition and unprecedented international reach.