Overview

• FIFA has so far released only match days for 2026, with expected Central European kickoff windows of 18:00, 20:00, 23:00 and 02:00.
• FIFA vice president Victor Montagliani said daily negotiations with European and global media are underway and he cannot guarantee TV‑ideal start times for every match.
• Heat considerations after the summer’s Club World Cup are driving plans to stage afternoon games only in cooler regions or in covered, climate‑controlled stadiums.
• The players’ union FIFPRO warned of extreme‑heat risks at several 2026 venues, citing four Club World Cup matches canceled due to heat and temperatures measured at about 37°C.
• With 48 teams and 104 matches, including up to six per day, Germany could face post‑midnight CET kickoffs depending on its draw and venue assignments to be determined on Dec. 5 in Washington, D.C.