The 2026 World Cup kicks off today - here's everything you need to know

Key Points:

• The 2026 World Cup will begin with cohosts Mexico facing South Africa, featuring a record 1,248 players from 48 teams competing in 104 matches across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
• Key host cities include Toronto, Vancouver, Guadalajara, Mexico City, Monterrey, and multiple US cities such as Atlanta, Los Angeles, and New York/New Jersey, with iconic stadiums like Estadio Azteca and MetLife Stadium hosting major games including the final.
• The expanded tournament features debutants Cabo Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan, with notable players ranging from 17-year-old Mexican Gilberto Mora to 43-year-old Scottish goalkeeper Craig Gordon and 41-year-old Cristiano Ronaldo.
• Favorites include Spain, France, Argentina, England, Brazil, and Germany, though Spain faces injury concerns; France's squad boasts stars like Kylian Mbappé and Ousmane Dembélé, while Argentina will rely on Lionel Messi.
• The buildup has been marred by controversies over US border controls denying visas to team staff and referees, and criticism over high ticket prices, which FIFA defends as necessary for reinvesting in football development.