World Cup 2026 – Guide to the tournament and the most iconic World Cup football shirts

The 2026 World Cup is not just a football tournament – it's a historic moment. For the first time ever, the World Cup will be hosted by three countries simultaneously: USA, Canada, and Mexico. With 48 participating teams and a new format, the 2026 World Cup will be the largest World Cup tournament in history. But behind the new records lie decades of football history – and no one tells it better than the shirts.

At Fodboldminder, we collect original, used football shirts with stories behind them. World Cup shirts are among the most coveted collector's items in the football world – and in this guide, we dive into the tournament, the favorites, and the shirts that have defined the World Cup throughout history.

World Cup 2026 – The Tournament

USA, Canada, and Mexico as host countries

The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across three continents and 16 host cities. This is the first time that three nations will co-host a World Cup. Matches will be played in iconic stadiums such as MetLife Stadium in New York, Azteca in Mexico City, and BC Place in Vancouver.

48 teams – new format

The 2026 World Cup expands the field from 32 to 48 teams, divided into 12 groups with four teams in each. The top two from each group, as well as the eight best third-placed teams, will advance to the knockout stage. This means more matches, more nations, and more stories to tell.

When and where?

The 2026 World Cup kicks off on June 11, 2026, and concludes with the final on July 19, 2026. Matches will be played in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

World Cup history and shirt culture

Why World Cup shirts are among the most coveted collector's items

A World Cup shirt is more than fabric and colors. It represents a moment in history – a match, a goal, a nation. Original World Cup shirts from major tournaments are rare, authentic, and carry a narrative that no replica can copy. That's why collectors worldwide pursue them.

At Fodboldminder, you'll find original World Cup shirts – used, genuine, and with stories behind them.

Iconic World Cup shirts throughout history

Denmark 1986 – World Cup debut

Denmark's first World Cup appearance in Mexico 1986 is legendary. With players like Preben Elkjær and Michael Laudrup, Denmark wrote themselves into football history with a 6-1 victory over Uruguay. The red and white shirt from 1986 is one of the most sought-after Danish collector's items.

Germany 1990 – World Champions

The 1990 World Cup in Italy was a tournament characterized by defensive play – but West Germany's white shirt from the final victory over Argentina is timeless. Andreas Brehme's penalty kick secured the title and cemented the shirt as a piece of football history.

Brazil 1994 – The yellow masterpiece

Brazil won the 1994 World Cup in the USA with a generation of stars led by Romário and Bebeto. The yellow Umbro shirt from 1994 is one of the most iconic in football history and a must-have for any serious collector.

France 1998 – Home turf triumph

France won the World Cup on home soil in 1998 with Zinedine Zidane at the helm. The dark blue shirt from the final victory over Brazil (3-0) symbolizes a generation that united a nation.

Denmark 1998 – Quarter-final in Lyon

Denmark reached the quarter-finals at the 1998 World Cup in France and beat Nigeria 4-1 in the round of sixteen. The red and white Hummel shirt from 1998 is a favorite among Danish collectors.

Argentina 2022 – Messi lifts the trophy

The 2022 World Cup in Qatar gave us one of the greatest finals in history. Argentina defeated France in a dramatic final, and Lionel Messi finally lifted the World Cup trophy. The light blue and white shirt from 2022 is already a classic.

World Cup 2026 – The Favorites

Argentina

As reigning world champions, Argentina are one of the big favorites. Messi and co. will chase another title in the iconic light blue and white shirt.

France

France, with Mbappé leading the way, are always dangerous at a World Cup. The dark blue shirt is a classic, and the French will fight for the title.

Spain

Spain are reigning European champions and one of the most technically gifted nations in the world. The red shirt symbolizes the tiki-taka era and modern football culture.

Brazil

Brazil are always favorites at a World Cup. The yellow shirt is the most iconic in football history, and the Brazilians will chase their sixth World Cup title.

World Cup shirts at Fodboldminder

At Fodboldminder, you'll find a selection of original World Cup football shirts – from classic collector's items to newer shirts with stories behind them. All our shirts are used and genuine, and we tell the story behind each one.

See our selection of World Cup shirts here →

FAQ – Frequently asked questions about World Cup 2026

When is the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

Where will the 2026 World Cup be held?

The 2026 World Cup will be held in the USA, Canada, and Mexico across 16 host cities.

How many teams will participate in the 2026 World Cup?

48 teams will participate in the 2026 World Cup – it's the largest field in World Cup history.

Which World Cup shirts are most valuable?

Original, match-worn, or player-issued shirts from major World Cup tournaments are the most valuable. Shirts from iconic matches – like Brazil 1970, Argentina 1986, or France 1998 – are particularly sought-after by collectors.

Where can I buy original World Cup football shirts?

At Fodboldminder, you'll find a selection of original, used World Cup football shirts with stories behind them.