FIFA announced that Mexican cities Guadalajara and Monterrey will host the intercontinental playoffs for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
The tournament begins on March 23 and will feature six teams from five confederations battling for two coveted spots at next summer’s World Cup, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada.
Guadalajara Stadium will stage four group-stage matches, while Monterrey Stadium will host three group fixtures and a round-of-32 clash. FIFA president Gianni Infantino described the venues as “iconic stadiums” and said they will provide the perfect stage for an event filled with passion, drama, and excitement.
Qualified Teams for Intercontinental Playoffs
- Iraq
- DR Congo
- Jamaica
- Suriname
- Bolivia
- New Caledonia
The draw will take place in Zurich on Thursday, followed by the release of the match schedule.
In addition to Guadalajara and Monterrey, Mexico’s newly renovated Azteca Stadium will also serve as a venue for the World Cup. Together, these stadiums highlight Mexico’s central role in hosting the global football spectacle.
The playoffs promise high-intensity matches as teams from diverse regions compete for the final entry into the world’s biggest football tournament. Fans across the globe eagerly await the draw to see how the fixtures unfold.
