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FIFA World Cup, often simply called the World Cup, is the most prestigious and widely followed international football (soccer) tournament. Organized by the Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA), the competition takes place every four years, with the exception of the years immediately following the Summer Olympic Games. The first World Cup was held in 1930 in Uruguay, and since then, it has become one of the most anticipated sporting events globally.

The tournament features 32 national teams, which qualify through various regional competitions organized by FIFA's six confederations. The teams are divided into groups, and the top two teams from each group advance to the knockout stage. The final match determines the champion, who is awarded the FIFA World Cup trophy.

The World Cup has seen many memorable moments and iconic players, including Pelé, Diego Maradona, and Lionel Messi. The tournament has also been marked by controversies, such as the 1986 Mexico World Cup, where the host nation was disqualified from the final due to a match-fixing scandal.

The World Cup is not only a sporting event but also a cultural phenomenon, with matches broadcasted live in numerous countries and followed by millions of fans worldwide. It has also been a platform for social and political statements, with players and teams using the stage to raise awareness about various issues.

The 2022 FIFA World Cup was held in Qatar, marking the first time the tournament was hosted in the Middle East. The event was praised for its high standards of organization and infrastructure, but it also faced criticism for its treatment of migrant workers and environmental concerns. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament will be held in North America.