The expanded global football competition, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is set to become the largest FIFA World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 host cities.
Speaking in comments published on FIFA’s official website, Infantino expressed confidence that the extensive planning efforts already underway would deliver a memorable experience for supporters arriving from around the globe.
“Preparations are going actually extremely well. The excitement is really building. We have been waiting for this and for the kick-off very soon for some years, so it’s time that it starts,” he said.
The FIFA president noted that authorities and organizers across all host cities are intensifying efforts to ensure infrastructure, logistics, and fan engagement activities are fully ready before the opening whistle.
“All 16 Host Cities are working tirelessly to make sure that, for the fans, everything is in place. There are FIFA Fan Festivals and public viewings all over the three countries,” Infantino stated.
“Every mayor, every governor, every leader in these countries is engaged, and engaging to make sure that everyone has an unforgettable experience,” he added.
The tournament will officially kick off on June 11 in Mexico City, where the host nation Mexico is scheduled to face South Africa in the opening match.
Infantino said the three co-hosts are closely aligned in final preparations, with major work ongoing on stadium upgrades, playing surfaces, transport systems, and operational logistics.
“We are ready to open the doors to the world, to welcome the world to Canada, Mexico, and the United States,” he said.
FIFA is also introducing several new entertainment and fan engagement initiatives aimed at expanding the global appeal of the competition.
One of the major additions includes a partnership with Fanatics for the Fanatics Fest event in New York, where pre-final activities and media engagements will take place.
“We are working as well with Fanatics, and from 16 to 19 July, we will be present at the Javits Center for the Fanatics Fest,” Infantino explained.
“And actually, something very new, the FIFA pre-match, pre-final press conference will take place at this event,” he added.
In another first for the competition, FIFA announced that the 2026 World Cup final will feature an official halftime show produced in collaboration with Global Citizen.
According to Infantino, the initiative is intended not only to entertain audiences but also to promote global education awareness through music and culture.
“We are teaming up also with Global Citizen to produce the very first FIFA World Cup Final Halftime Show. A halftime show with incredible artists, which will be announced very shortly as well,” he said.
With millions of supporters expected to travel across North America and billions anticipated to watch worldwide, FIFA believes the 2026 edition could redefine the scale and commercial reach of international football tournaments.
Infantino described the event as one of the most ambitious sporting projects ever undertaken, combining football, entertainment, and global cultural celebration on an unprecedented level.