when does the knockout stage start

The knockout stage starts on June 28, 2026 , with the new Round of 32 opening the elimination rounds. It runs through July 19, 2026 , when the final is played.

Schedule at a glance

• Round of 32: June 28 to July 3.

• Round of 16: July 4 to July 7.

• Quarterfinals: July 9 to July 11.

• Semifinals: July 14 to July 15.

• Bronze medal match: July 18.

• Final: July 19.

Why this matters

This World Cup uses a 48-team format, so the knockout phase begins with a Round of 32 instead of going straight to a Round of 16. That means the first elimination games start immediately after the group stage ends.