World Cup: FIFA awards 2026 games to US, Canada & Mexico

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02:38

On the eve of the World Cup kick off in Russia, a much-anticipated vote from FIFA. It awarded the 2026 tournament to the joint bid from the United States, Canada and Mexico. That means for the first time, the competition will be hosted in three countries. CGTN's Dan Williams reports from Moscow.

The moment the "United" 2026 World Cup dream became a reality.

"The member associations of Canada, Mexico and USA have been selected by the FIFA Congress to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Thank you."

There had been suggestions the race would be close. But in the end, United triumphed by 134 votes to 65.

CARLOS CORDEIRO, PRESIDENT US SOCCER FEDERATION "I'm sorry it's a bit emotional for us today. On behalf of our united bid, Canada, Mexico and my country the United States, thank you so so much for this incredible honor. Thank you for entrusting us with this privilege, the privilege of hosting the FIFA World Cup in 2026."

The 2026 tournament promises to be the biggest World Cup ever with 48 teams playing 80 matches. The key selling point, that the bid would generate eleven billion dollars in profits for FIFA. There had been concerns that simmering political tensions between the countries could undermine the "United" bid a point alluded to in the news conference.

CARLOS CORDEIRO, PRESIDENT US SOCCER FEDERATION "I think at the end of the day the power and the unity, the unity of the three nations coming together offering what no one nation including my own can provide today. I think that was a very very powerful message."

DAN WILLIAMS MOSCOW So in the end, it was a comprehensive victory for the United bid. They can now begin the process of organizing the 2026 tournament. But for Morocco, yet further disappoint. This is the fifth time the country has missed out in the World Cup bidding process.

Despite that record, Moroccan officials are promising to try again.

ABDELKADER LECHEHEB MOROCCAN AMBASSADOR TO RUSSIA "Of course, we are disappointed. I think we didn't succeed. As you know, Morocco presented its candidature - this is the fifth time - so, it will be a sixth time."

The news is a blow to Morocco and for African football. But for football fans in Canada, the U.S. and Mexico, the game's showpiece event is on its way. Dan Williams, CGTN, Moscow.