World Cup begins today in new 48-team format

The 2026 World Cup begins today in the United States, Mexico and Canada, with 48 teams taking part for the first time.

France and Spain start among the favourites, but the tournament also brings a final World Cup push for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo.

Messi arrives as defending champion with Argentina. Ronaldo is still chasing the one major trophy missing from his career.

Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, Jude Bellingham and Harry Kane are expected to be among the biggest names on the pitch.

Younger players including Lamine Yamal, Arda Güler, Kenan Yildiz and Jamal Musiala could use the tournament as their biggest stage yet.