100 Days to the World Cup: Messi and CR7's Last Dance, Mbappé's Challenge, and Lamine's Debut
100 days before the 2026 World Cup, the biggest tournament in history will mark the possible last dance of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, Kylian Mbappé's challenge, and Lamine Yamal's World Cup debut in a 48-team, 104-match North American Cup.
TL;DR
- The 2026 World Cup, featuring 48 teams, will be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 14 to July 19.
- This tournament is likely to be the final World Cup for Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo, both nearing the end of their illustrious careers.
- Kylian Mbappé will be a key figure, aiming for his second World Cup title, while 17-year-old Lamine Yamal is set to make his World Cup debut for Spain.
- The tournament will consist of 104 matches across 16 venues, starting at the Azteca Stadium and concluding at MetLife Stadium.
- Messi, at 39, continues to perform at a high level, recently winning the Copa América and an MLS title. Ronaldo, at 41, is still scoring prolifically and seeks a World Cup title to complete his career achievements.
- Other contenders include England, Brazil, and Germany, while Italy's participation is uncertain as they face play-offs.
- Messi and Ronaldo will be participating in their sixth World Cup, setting a new record for their legacies.