# FIFA World Cup History
The FIFA World Cup is the most prestigious international football tournament in the world. Organized by FIFA, the competition brings together national teams from across the globe to compete for the sport’s ultimate prize.
The first FIFA World Cup was held in Uruguay in 1930, featuring 13 national teams. Since then, the tournament has evolved into the world's most watched sporting event, attracting billions of viewers every four years.
Over the decades, the number of participating nations has steadily increased. The competition expanded from 13 teams in 1930 to 24 teams in 1982, 32 teams in 1998, and will reach 48 teams for the first time at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The tournament has produced legendary players, unforgettable matches, historic upsets, and iconic champions. From Uruguay's victory in the inaugural edition to the modern era of global football, every World Cup has added a unique chapter to the history of the sport.
The FIFA World Cup Trophy has also become one of the most recognizable symbols in world sport. The original trophy, known as the Jules Rimet Trophy, was awarded between 1930 and 1970. Since 1974, the current FIFA World Cup Trophy has been presented to the champions, featuring a design that symbolizes the triumph and unity of world football.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a new era for the tournament. Hosted jointly by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, it will be the first World Cup featuring 48 teams and the largest edition in the competition's history.
World Cup Facts
First Tournament: 1930
First Host: Uruguay
Current Organizer: FIFA
Current Format: 48 Teams
Most Successful Nation: Brazil
Current Trophy Introduced: 1974
Hosts of 2026: Canada, USA, Mexico