The 2026 World Cup countdown begins with a one-year mark celebrated in host cities Toronto, Vancouver, and Niagara Falls. Key milestones approach, including 7,000 volunteer calls, ticket sales, and the tournament draw. Peter Montopoli, chief tournament officer, emphasizes excitement as the event moves from a marathon to a sprint in its final year. Canada will host 13 of the 104 scheduled games, and the event represents a major expansion, featuring 48 teams compared to the previous 32. Other preparations include the unveiling of the tournament poster, mascots, and official match ball by Adidas.
"It's nine years so far on this project," said Peter Montopoli, chief tournament officer for Canada. "This marathon is now at one year out, turned into a sprint."
"This is an exciting time to be running the event, it’s an exciting time for FIFA, and it’s an exciting time for our country."
The tournament’s official poster will join those of the 16 host cities as part of the lead-up excitement, alongside ticket sales starting in September.
In all, there will be 104 games, with 13 each in Canada and Mexico and the remaining 78 in the U.S.
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