For the first time, the World Cup belongs to three nations at once — a tournament stretched across a continent, from the snows of Canada to the deserts of northern Mexico. Each host brings its own history, landscape and culture to the world's biggest party. Get to know them.
Lead host · 11 cities · the Final
United States
From the Statue of Liberty to the Hollywood sign, the lead host stages the lion's share of matches — including the Final at MetLife.
CapitalWashington, D.C.
Largest cityNew York City
Population~335 million
LanguageEnglish (de facto)
First-time host · 2 cities
Canada
Co-hosting a World Cup for the very first time, with Toronto and Vancouver welcoming the world from the Great Lakes to the Pacific.
CapitalOttawa
Largest cityToronto
Population~40 million
LanguageEnglish & French
Three-time host · 3 cities · the opener
Mexico
The spiritual home of the World Cup becomes the first nation ever to host three times — and the Azteca opens the whole tournament.
CapitalMexico City
Largest cityMexico City
Population~130 million
LanguageSpanish