2026 FIFA World Cup format changes and broadcasting updates

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted by the USA, Mexico, and Canada, will feature 48 teams, an increase from the previous 32-team format. Each national squad will consist of 26 players. FIFA has introduced new regulations to improve match flow, including a 10-second limit for substitutions, 5 seconds for restarts, and a mandatory one-minute removal from the pitch for players receiving medical treatment. Only team captains are permitted to communicate with referees. Broadcasting changes are being discussed, with reports from the Times suggesting that YouTube may stream select matches, 10-minute previews of all 104 games, and highlights. These initiatives are subject to internal FIFA approval and may include geographical restrictions and influencer participation. Final decisions on the YouTube implementation remain pending.