FIFA has released the full match schedule for the expanded 2026 World Cup, which will run from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
The tournament features 48 teams playing 104 matches, a significant increase from the 64 games in 2022. The opening match will be held at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, with the final scheduled for MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
A major development is Kraken being named the Official Crypto Exchange Supporter for the tournament. This marks the first time a cryptocurrency exchange has held an official partnership role at the World Cup.
The crypto landscape around the event extends beyond the exchange sponsorship. Blockchain platform Chiliz is powering national team fan tokens through its Socios.com platform, allowing fans new ways to engage. The Avalanche blockchain is also supporting FIFA initiatives for digital collectibles and ticketing.
For investors, the developments signal potential volatility in fan token markets and increased activity on prediction platforms. However, the high-profile intersection of crypto and global sports may attract heightened regulatory scrutiny, particularly in the United States.