Gianni Infantino 2026 World Cup preparations update as FIFA president says planning is progressing smoothly ahead of the expanded tournament in USA, Canada and Mexico

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has said preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are progressing smoothly as the countdown to the tournament continues.

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Gianni Infantino 2026 World Cup preparations update came as he expressed confidence that the joint-host nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—are fully engaged in delivering a successful competition.

The 2026 edition will be the largest FIFA World Cup in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches across 16 host cities.

Speaking via FIFA’s official communication channels, Infantino said excitement is building as final arrangements are being put in place across all venues.

“Preparations are going actually extremely well. The excitement is really building,” he said.

He added that all host cities are working to ensure infrastructure, logistics, and fan engagement activities are ready ahead of kickoff.

“All 16 Host Cities are working tirelessly to make sure that, for the fans, everything is in place,” he said.

Infantino also highlighted planned FIFA Fan Festivals and public viewing events across the three host countries, noting strong coordination between local leaders and organisers.

The tournament is scheduled to begin on June 11 in Mexico City, where the opening match will feature the host nation against South Africa.

He further confirmed that stadium upgrades, transport systems, and operational logistics are being finalised across all host nations.

FIFA also announced new entertainment initiatives, including a partnership with Fanatics for a Fanatics Fest event in New York, where pre-final activities and media sessions will take place.

In another major innovation, the 2026 World Cup final will feature a halftime show produced in collaboration with Global Citizen, aimed at blending entertainment with global social impact messaging.

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Infantino described the tournament as one of FIFA’s most ambitious projects, combining football, entertainment, and cultural celebration on a global scale.