FIFA Hails Historic 2026 World Cup as Most Successful Edition Ever

FIFA has declared the 2026 World Cup the most successful edition in history, citing record crowds, unprecedented global engagement, and competitive surprises that silenced early critics of the expanded format. For the first time, the tournament was co-hosted by three nations—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—featuring 48 teams and 104 matches, a significant enlargement from the previous 32-team structure. FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed pride in the extraordinary atmosphere, stating that the event embodied his vision of making football a truly global sport.

A landmark moment came on June 16, 2026, when four matches in New York, Boston, Kansas City, and San Francisco set a new single-day attendance record in World Cup history. FIFA described the day as "immortalised" and thanked fans for the "vibrancy, passion, and excitement" they brought. The governing body noted that the 2026 edition was proving how much the world loves the sport and how football unites people.

While the tournament featured the debuts of superstars such as Kylian Mbappé, Erling Haaland, and Sadio Mané, the crowds themselves became the headline, with supporters delivering displays of enthusiasm and belonging that underscored the role of fans as the "12th player." The fan revolution has been credited with validating the controversial decision to expand the competition from 32 to 48 teams, a move initially met with skepticism.

Competitively, the expanded format has reshaped the landscape of international football. Previously considered minnows, several teams have challenged traditional powerhouses, producing upsets against title contenders such as Spain. FIFA highlighted that the 2026 World Cup is not just breaking records but redefining the very concept of the tournament: more inclusive, more competitive, and more popular than ever.