The 2026 FIFA World Cupwas the largest in history, featuring 48 teams, three host countries, 16 cities and 104 matches. While the expanded tournament gave more nations a chance to compete, it also brought logistical challenges, high travel costs and expensive tickets for many fans.

African teams such as Morocco, Egypt, DR Congo and Cape Verde impressed on the pitch, while Germany exited in disappointment. The tournament also sparked debate over hydration breaks, politics, refereeing controversies and FIFA's role, even as football united millions of people across borders and cultures.