When Is the 2030 World Cup? All You Need to Know

As the United States’ participation in the 2026 World Cup has concluded and the tournament moves closer to the quarterfinals, soccer enthusiasts worldwide are already looking ahead to what comes next. While the next men’s World Cup is not set until 2030, several key elements have already been confirmed for what could be one of the most distinctive tournaments in the competition’s history.

Morocco, Portugal, and Spain will serve as the primary hosts for the 2030 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, special centenary matches will take place in Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the first World Cup.

Here’s a comprehensive overview of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, covering host nations, tournament format, qualification details, and more.

Who Will Host the 2030 FIFA World Cup?

Most of the matches in the 2030 FIFA World Cup will be hosted by Morocco, Portugal, and Spain. These three nations submitted a joint bid that was developed in collaboration with and supported by the Confederations of CAF, CONMEBOL, and UEFA.

In addition to this, three South American countries—Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay—will host games to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the inaugural World Cup. This unique arrangement highlights the historical significance of the event.

Why Are Argentina and Paraguay Hosting Games?

While it makes sense for Uruguay, the original host of the 1930 World Cup, to host a match, the inclusion of Argentina and Paraguay may raise some questions.

Argentina was chosen because it faced Uruguay in the first World Cup final, which was won by the host country. Paraguay, on the other hand, will host a game to honor its role as the home of CONMEBOL, the only football confederation during the 1930 World Cup.

Has Anyone Qualified for the 2030 World Cup?

All six countries involved—Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Morocco, Portugal, and Spain—are automatically qualified for the 2030 World Cup due to their hosting status. No other teams have yet secured their spots in the tournament.

How Many Teams Will Compete in the 2030 World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup expanded to 48 teams for the first time, but there are discussions about further expansion for the 2030 edition. CONMEBOL president Alejandro Dominguez has proposed increasing the number of participating teams to 64.

“I dream of a World Cup with 64 teams,” Dominguez said in 2025. “I believe it’s a great opportunity to do something that unites the world, to bring football to more people, and to have a completely different kind of celebration.”

Despite the enthusiasm around this idea, there has been significant pushback. FIFA has not yet made an official decision on the number of teams that will compete in the 2030 World Cup.

2030 FIFA World Cup Schedule

Although the official schedule has not been released, FIFA has outlined a general plan for the tournament. The following dates summarize the intended timeline:

• June 8-9, 2030: Centenary celebration ceremony
• June 13-14, 2030: Opening ceremony and first matches
• June 15-16, 2030: Group play matches
• June 21-22, 2030: Continued group play matches
• July 21, 2030: Final match

FIFA has also mentioned that teams playing in South America will have approximately 11 to 12 days for travel and rest between their first and second matches, while other teams will have around five to six days for rest.