Edson Arantes Do Nascimento Pele of Brazil celebrates the victory after winnings the 1970 World Cup in Mexico match between Brazil and Italy at Estadio Azteca on 21 June in Città del Messico. Mexico (Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

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Tyler Erzberger

By Tyler Erzberger

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The biggest World Cup in history is about to begin across three countries this coming week, and 48 nations will be kicking off their own journeys across North America to become champions.

With an expanded World Cup also comes more cities and stadiums than ever, with 16 different venues being used for the historic tournament.

Before the games kick off, here is my personal ranking of the 16 stadiums hosting the 48-team World Cup.

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MEXICO CITY, MEXICO - MAY 20:General view of Mexico City Stadium on May 20, 2026 in Mexico City, Mexico. The Mexico City Stadium, officially named Estadio Banorte or better known by its former name, Estadio Azteca, was designed by architects Pedro Ram�rez Vazquez and Rafael Mijares Alcerreca. The stadium will host the opening match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, marking its third World Cup appearance. (Photo by Hector Vivas/Getty Images)

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1. Estadio Azteca (Mexico City)

The venue for the first game of the 2026 World Cup is also its best. When it comes to culture and prestige, no venue means more in the world of soccer than the sporting cathedral in Mexico City. It has hosted two World Cup Finals and could have easily held a third if needed.

Nothing beats seeing the Azteca adorned with flags from all the competing nations at the World Cup.

2. SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles)

My personal pick for the best modern stadium in the World Cup, SoFi Stadium, will host the U.S. Men's National Team as they start their World Cup against Paraguay. A gem out near Hollywood, it is built for the biggest and brightest spectacles in sport and entertainment.

3. Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta)

Atlanta's venue is right there alongside L.A.'s when it comes to the best America has to offer: large, comfortable, perfectly built for pomp and circumstance. Mercedes-Benz Stadium has been home to some of the biggest games held in the country over the last decade, and it's been a perfect home for Atlanta FC in the MLS.

4. AT&T Stadium (Dallas)

Jerry's World has always felt destined to host the World Cup. Although it's been overtaken by Los Angeles and Atlanta (maybe Las Vegas too) in my opinion, when it comes to the best stadiums in the United States, it's still by far the biggest and a sight to behold for any traveling fans.

SEATTLE, WASHINGTON - MAY 31: In an aerial view, Seattle Stadium, temporarily renamed from Lumen Field, stands ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026 on May 31, 2026 in Seattle, Washington. The stadium will host six matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)

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5. Estadio BBVA (Monterrey)

While the secondary Mexican stadium doesn't have the bells and whistles of many other American venues, I have it in the top five for the atmosphere expected from diehard C.F. Monterrey fans.

Monterrey fans pack what they call "The Steel Giant" more than any other fanbase in the Mexican domestic league, and it should be electric regardless of which nations are playing there this summer.

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