World Cup 2026: From 13 to 48 teams, a quantum leap in the history of football

The tournament that starts tomorrow redefines the global competition, with astronomical figures and a debate about its appeal for the fan

The World Soccer Championship, that event that paralyzes the planet every four years, has experienced an astonishing metamorphosis since its genesis in 1930. That inaugural edition in Uruguay, with barely 13 selections and a panorama where professionalism was still struggling to consolidate itself, contrasts drastically with the monumentality of the tournament that begins tomorrow. Today, in 2026, we find ourselves facing an unprecedented World Cup, organized jointly by three countries and with an economic and sporting scope that redefines the limits.

Let's remember that 1930. Football, far from the global machine that it is today, moved in fits and starts, searching for its own identity outside the Olympic Committee. The first edition was a logistical and convening challenge. Twelve invited teams and the host, Uruguay, made up the initial draw. The qualifying phase, as we know it, was non-existent. Convincing the European federations to cross the Atlantic was an odyssey, given the demands of the trip. Finally, just France, Belgium, Yugoslavia and Romania represented the Old Continent, facing nine American teams. Uruguay, as it could not be otherwise, won the first title.

Ninety-six years later, the scene is radically different. The 2026 World Cup looks like a colossus. The shared organization between three nations It is a historic first. The budget is estimated at about 6 billion dollarsand the tournament is projected to boost global Gross Domestic Product (GDP) by more than 40 billion dollars. Assistance is expected from 6.5 million viewers to the stadiums, and the prize pool for the national teams amounts to 655 million dollars. And the number of participants skyrockets to 48 selectionsan absolute record that represents the six confederations on the planet.

But, beyond the macro figures, a recurring question arises among fans: Is this expanded format really attractive to the average fan? When does the excitement of the competition begin to pulse? How long should we wait to see the true essence of the World Cup?

Within the Spanish team, the expectation is palpable. With Luis De la Fuente In command, Spain is emerging as one of the candidates to fight for the title. Among the constellation of talent that the Riojan coach has brought together, several names promise to shine. However, the path to glory is not without questions. Players like Lamine Yamal, Rodri, Mikel Merino or Nico WilliamsAfter overcoming serious injuries, they face the tournament with the unknown of their optimal state.

In this context, and with the permission of figures of the stature of Pedrithe safest bet for Spain seems to fall on Mikel Oyarzabal. The Real Sociedad footballer, wearing the number 21arrives after a dazzling previous phase, earning the respect and admiration of locals and strangers. Oyarzabal stands as the most solid lighthouse in a team full of stars. If I had to bet, I would do it without hesitation: “everything at 21 and red.”

However, the World Cup euphoria is dampened by the high price of tickets. Fans will have to pay considerable sums, in some cases several thousand dollarsto witness matches that, on paper, could be considered of less interest. The presence of the United States as one of the hosts, although it provides infrastructure, does not at all justify this pricing policy, which borders on the obscene.

On the other hand, in the field of Spanish club football, the name of Gonzaloa young Real Madrid attacker, is once again making strong noises in the Real Sociedad orbit. Unlike previous summers, the white striker arrives after a notable campaign, which complicates a possible departure. However, his hypothetical arrival in Donostia, doubling his position with a Oskarsson already consolidated, generates certain strategic doubts.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the 2026 World Cup

How many teams participate in the 2026 World Cup?
They will participate in the 2026 World Cup 48 selectionsa record number.
Who are the host countries of the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly organized by three countries: United States, Canada and Mexico.
When was the first edition of the Soccer World Cup held?
The first edition of the World Football Championship was held in 1930 in Uruguay.
What was the number of teams in the first World Cup?
In the 1930 edition they participated 13 selections.
Was there a qualifying phase for the 1930 World Cup?
No, the edition of 1930 It was the only one that did not have a previous qualifying phase.
What is the budget estimate for the 2026 World Cup?
The tournament budget will be close to 6 billion dollars.
How much is the 2026 World Cup expected to generate in global GDP?
It is estimated that the tournament could contribute to generating more than 40 billion dollars in Gross Domestic Product (GDP) on a global scale.
How many spectators are expected to attend the 2026 World Cup?
It is estimated that the tournament will attract 6.5 million viewers to the stadiums.
What is the prize pool for the teams participating in the 2026 World Cup?
The prizes distributed among the participating teams will amount to 655 million dollars.
Which Spanish player stands out as a safe bet for the team in this World Cup?
Mikel Oyarzabalwith the number 21is considered the most solid bet due to its current state of form.