2026 FIFA World Cup Final: Date, Kickoff Time, Venue, Teams & Full Schedule
The world’s biggest sporting event is coming to North America. The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final will make history as the first championship match in an expanded 48-team tournament. Fans across the globe are already marking their calendars for July 19, 2026.
This World Cup brings several firsts to the table. Three nations will host the tournament together for the first time ever. The final will feature a halftime show inspired by the Super Bowl. More teams mean more drama and more chances for underdog stories.
MetLife Stadium in New Jersey will welcome the two best teams on earth for the ultimate showdown. The stadium sits just outside New York City and can hold over 80,000 fans. Billions more will watch from home as two nations battle for football’s greatest prize.
When is the 2026 FIFA World Cup Final?
Sunday, July 19, 2026. That’s the date football fans need to remember. The championship match caps off a 39-day tournament that begins on June 11, 2026.
The tournament starts in Mexico City at the legendary Estadio Azteca. This stadium hosted two previous World Cup finals and remains a temple of football. Teams battle across 16 cities in three countries before the final two meet in New Jersey.
The date falls on a Sunday which works perfectly for fans. Most people can watch without missing work. Schools are on summer break across North America. Families can build weekend plans around the biggest match in four years. The bronze medal game happens the day before in Miami on July 18.
Where is the 2026 World Cup Final Being Held?
MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey gets the honor. The venue sits about 10 miles from Manhattan in the Meadowlands Sports Complex. FIFA will call it “New York New Jersey Stadium” during the tournament.
The stadium opened in 2010 and regularly hosts NFL games for the Giants and Jets. It can hold 80,760 fans after recent field renovations. The venue has serious credentials. It hosted Super Bowl XLVIII in 2014 and the Copa America final in 2016.
Getting there is easy with public transportation. The Meadowlands Rail Line runs shuttle trains from Secaucus Junction. A brand new $35 million busway will move fans from transit hubs to the stadium. Skip the car and parking headaches. Take the train and arrive three to four hours early.
Which teams have Qualified for the 2026 World Cup?
The tournament expands to 48 teams this year. That’s 16 more than Qatar 2022. Right now 30 teams have locked in their spots. Another 18 will join them through qualification and playoffs.
Host Nations (Automatic Qualification)
- United States
- Canada
- Mexico
Europe – UEFA (12 Qualified)
- Austria
- Belgium
- Croatia
- England
- France
- Germany
- Netherlands
- Norway
- Portugal
- Scotland
- Spain
- Switzerland
Four more European teams will emerge from playoffs in March 2026.
South America – CONMEBOL (6 Qualified)
- Argentina (defending champions)
- Brazil
- Colombia
- Ecuador
- Paraguay
- Uruguay
Africa – CAF (9 Qualified)
- Algeria
- Cape Verde
- Egypt
- Ghana
- Ivory Coast
- Morocco
- Senegal
- South Africa
- Tunisia
Asia – AFC (8 Qualified)
- Australia
- Iran
- Japan
- Jordan
- Qatar
- Saudi Arabia
- South Korea
- Uzbekistan
Oceania – OFC (1 Qualified)
- New Zealand (first guaranteed OFC spot in World Cup history)
CONCACAF still needs to finalize its qualifiers beyond the three hosts. The confederation will send three more teams directly plus two to inter-confederation playoffs.
The World Cup draw happens December 5, 2025 in Washington DC. This ceremony places teams into groups and sets up the knockout bracket.
First-Ever World Cup Final Halftime Show
Football meets entertainment in a historic way. The 2026 final introduces the first-ever World Cup halftime show. Think Super Bowl but for the world’s biggest sport.
Global Citizen will produce the show with help from Coldplay’s Chris Martin. This marks a partnership between FIFA and the international advocacy group. The goal goes beyond entertainment. They want to raise awareness about global poverty and education access.
The performance runs 15 to 20 minutes during the break. Multiple international superstars will take the stage. No artists have been announced yet but expect huge names. The FIFA Club World Cup final in 2025 featured J Balvin, Doja Cat and Tems. The World Cup Final will aim even bigger.
About 2 billion people worldwide will watch the halftime show. That’s massive reach for any artist. Times Square will host watch parties and live performances during finals weekend. The entire area transforms into a World Cup celebration zone.
The FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund ties into this partnership. The goal is raising over $100 million by the final. Every tournament ticket contributes $1 to education programs worldwide. Music and sport combine to make real change.
What time does the 2026 World Cup Final Kick Off?
FIFA hasn’t announced the exact time yet. That information typically comes about six months before the tournament. Past finals have started between 3 PM and 6 PM local time.
Note: The kickoff times below are estimates based on previous World Cup finals. FIFA will announce the official time in early 2026.
Expected Kickoff Times by Region
| Region | Expected Kickoff Time |
|---|---|
| Eastern Time (New York) | 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM |
| Central Time (Chicago) | 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM |
| Mountain Time (Denver) | 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM |
| Pacific Time (Los Angeles) | 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM |
| UK (London) | 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Central Europe | 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM |
| Japan/South Korea | 4:00 AM – 7:00 AM |
| Australia (Sydney) | 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM |
The match runs 90 minutes plus stoppage time. The halftime show extends the break to about 20 minutes. Total broadcast time hits around three hours including pre-match coverage and the trophy ceremony. Tied games go to extra time and possibly penalties. Plan for a full afternoon or evening.
2026 World Cup Final Day Schedule
July 19 starts early for dedicated fans and builds to an unforgettable climax. Here’s how the day unfolds.
Important Disclaimer: The timeline below represents estimates based on typical World Cup final day schedules. FIFA will release official timings and gate opening hours closer to the tournament. Always check official FIFA and MetLife Stadium channels for confirmed information before making travel plans.
Complete Final Day Timeline
| Time (ET) | Event |
|---|---|
| 6:00 AM – 10:00 AM | Fan zones open across New York/New Jersey. Times Square activations begin. Stadium parking lots open for tailgating. |
| 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM | MetLife Stadium gates open (approximately 5 hours before kickoff). Security screening begins. Pre-match entertainment starts. |
| 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Stadium fills with fans. Teams arrive at venue. Players begin warm-ups. VIP and celebrity arrivals. |
| 2:00 PM – 3:00 PM | Pre-match ceremonies. National anthems. FIFA trophy presentation. Team lineups announced. |
| 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM | Match kickoff (estimated time). First half: 45 minutes. Halftime show: 15-20 minutes. Second half: 45 minutes. Extra time if needed. |
| Immediately After | Trophy ceremony (30-45 minutes). Winner celebrations. Medal presentations. Captain lifts World Cup trophy. |
| 8:00 PM – Late | Times Square celebrations. Victory parties across NYC/NJ. Post-match coverage continues globally. |
Important Notes for Attendees:
- Arrive minimum 3-4 hours before kickoff
- Gates close at kickoff time
- No re-entry allowed once you leave
- Bring sunscreen and phone chargers
- Stay hydrated throughout the day
- Plan for 8+ hour experience
How to Buy 2026 World Cup Final Tickets
Tickets are incredibly hard to get. Only 80,000 seats exist for billions of fans. FIFA.com is the only official source. Never buy from random websites or unauthorized sellers.
Face value prices run from $2,030 to $6,370. The cheapest seats are in the corners and upper deck. The best seats near midfield cost top dollar. Secondary market prices explode much higher from $5,937 to over $38,000.
Pricing Disclaimer: Ticket prices listed are based on the first sales phase. FIFA may adjust prices for future sales phases. Secondary market prices fluctuate based on demand.
The Visa presale already closed. Over 4.5 million people applied. Future sales include a random draw in early 2026 and first-come first-served sales in spring 2026. Last-minute tickets pop up in June from returns and unclaimed purchases.
You need a FIFA Fan ID to buy tickets. Register now at FIFA.com even without tickets yet. The process links to your passport and takes a few days.
How to Watch the 2026 World Cup Final
The match airs free in most countries. FOX Sports broadcasts in English across the US. Telemundo covers it in Spanish. Both networks offer free over-the-air viewing.
Canada watches on CTV and TSN. The UK sees it on BBC and ITV. All these broadcasts cost nothing. Streaming apps include FOX Sports, Peacock, BBC iPlayer and ITVX.
Broadcasting Note: Broadcasting rights and streaming platforms are confirmed as of November 2025. Check with your local providers closer to the tournament for any updates or changes.
Over 200 countries will broadcast the final. Check your local listings for specific channels. Coverage typically starts two to three hours before kickoff. Many broadcasters offer 4K viewing options.
2026 FIFA World Cup Final FAQs: All you need to Know
Can I attend other World Cup matches if I can’t get Final tickets?
Yes. The tournament features 104 matches across 16 cities. MetLife Stadium hosts eight total matches including group stage and knockout games. Tickets for earlier rounds are easier to obtain and much cheaper.
What happens if it rains during the Final?
The match goes on. MetLife Stadium has no roof so rain is possible in July. Bring a poncho or rain jacket just in case. FIFA does not postpone World Cup matches for weather unless conditions become dangerous.
Are there age restrictions for attending the Final?
Children of all ages can attend with valid tickets. Kids under two may not need tickets if they sit on a parent’s lap. Check FIFA’s official policy before the tournament. Bring ID for children to verify ages at security.
What items can I bring into MetLife Stadium?
Small bags and clear plastic bags are usually allowed. No large backpacks or outside food and drinks. Camera policies vary but phones are always permitted. Check the stadium’s official World Cup guidelines before match day.
Will players from the Premier League be at the World Cup?
Yes. Players from all major leagues participate. Club seasons end in May 2026. Players must join their national teams by May 25. Top stars from England, Spain, Italy, Germany and France will all be there.
How long should I stay in New York for the Final?
Plan at least three to four days. Arrive a day or two early to handle jet lag and explore the city. Stay at least one day after to enjoy the celebrations or commiserate. Hotel rooms book fast so reserve early.
What is the weather like in New Jersey in July?
Expect hot and humid conditions. Temperatures typically reach 75 to 85 degrees Fahrenheit. Afternoon thunderstorms are possible. Wear light clothes and bring sunscreen. Stay hydrated throughout the day.
Can I watch the Final in Times Square for free?
Yes. FIFA and Global Citizen will set up viewing areas in Times Square. Expect massive crowds during finals weekend. Arrive very early to secure a good viewing spot. The atmosphere will be incredible with hundreds of thousands of fans.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup Final represents a once-in-a-lifetime event for American football fans. Start planning now for July 19, 2026.
