The centenary matches, explained
Montevideo, Buenos Aires, Asunción — a tribute to 1930.
The FIFA World Cup 2030 opens with three centenary matches played in Montevideo (Estadio Centenario), Buenos Aires (Estadio Monumental) and Asunción (Estadio Osvaldo Domínguez Dibb), before the tournament continues among the main hosts — Spain, Portugal, Morocco.
Last updated 13 July 2026
Why three matches in South America?
The very first World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay, which hosted and won it at Montevideo's Estadio Centenario. For the centenary, FIFA awarded three opening matches to Uruguay, Argentina and Paraguay — a nod to the tournament's origins.
| Country | City | Stadium |
|---|---|---|
| Uruguay | Montevideo | Estadio Centenario (host of the 1930 final) |
| Argentina | Buenos Aires | Estadio Monumental |
| Paraguay | Asunción | Estadio Osvaldo Domínguez Dibb |
A celebration, not a shared tournament
These three countries each host one opening match, then the action moves to Spain, Portugal and Morocco for the rest of the competition. It's an essential distinction if you're planning a trip: the bulk of the tournament is in Europe and Morocco.
Frequently asked questions
Three centenary opening matches: one in Uruguay, one in Argentina, one in Paraguay.
No. It hosts a centenary opening match; the final is played among the main hosts.
Yes, but it involves intercontinental logistics; we coordinate them once the official calendar is published.
Experience the centenary with TGZ
Register your interest: we compose access and travel as soon as dates and stadiums are confirmed.