Raleigh, Cary host watch parties for 2026 FIFA World Cup final

Hype for 2026 FIFA World Cup has reached a fever pitch.

Match play began on June 11. The championship game is scheduled for July 19.

Fox’s 2026 FIFA World Cup coverage is scheduled to run from Thursday, June 11, through Sunday, July 19, with live matches, studio programming and late-night recap shows across the tournament. 

Fox’s coverage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup final is scheduled for Sunday, July 19.

 Lionel Messi — the most prolific goal scorer in the tournament's history — and defending champion Argentina will take on Spain's defensive juggernaut on Sunday in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Spain beat France in one semifinal on Tuesday; Argentina, the comeback king of this tournament, rallied to beat England 2-1 in the other semifinal on Wednesday.

Argentina is seeking its fourth title and is looking to become the first back-to-back World Cup champion since Brazil pulled off the feat in 1958 and 1962. Spain is looking for its second title, after winning in 2010.

Argentina leads the tournament in goals scored — 19.

Spain leads the tournament in fewest goals allowed — one.

Something will have to give on Sunday, when the biggest World Cup ever — a 48-team, 104-match extravaganza spread out over the U.S., Canada and Mexico — comes to an end.

The day’s schedule includes:

• FIFA World Cup Live: 11 a.m. to 2:45 p.m. ET
• FIFA World Cup 2026 Final: 2:45 to 5:30 p.m. ET

Whether you're cheering for your home country, gathering with fellow supporters, or simply soaking in the electric atmosphere, these World Cup events are the place to be. 

Experience every goal, save and celebration alongside fellow fans at the World Cup Final Watch Party in Moore Square on Sunday.

Food and drinks will be available for purchase, including beer and wine.

The fun begins at 3 p.m. with free admission for all ages.

The NC Courage will host a watch party at Fenton Square Saturday. Festivities begin at 2:30 p.m. There will be food samples, drink specials and the game on the big screen. 

The matches are on at these Triangle-area bars and restaurants:

The Winchester Pub & Bottle shop: Your home for the World Cup.

Sports & Social: World Soccer HQ

Shuckin’ Shack Oyster: FIFA World Cup 2026 watch parties