The tournament has traveled across continents since the first competition in 1930, bringing nations together through sport. From South America to Asia, each host has added its own flavor to the event.

Early years and European expansion

The first World Cup took place in Uruguay, where the tournament was born. Italy and France followed in the 1930s, before the event paused due to global conflict. After the war, Switzerland, Sweden, and England took turns welcoming teams.

South America returned as host when Chile staged the competition in 1962, and Mexico became the first country to host twice, in 1970 and 1986.

Modern era and global reach

Germany, Italy, France, and Japan co-hosted with South Korea in 2002, marking the first Asian tournament. South Africa broke new ground in 2010 as the first African host. Brazil welcomed the world in 2014, and Russia hosted in 2018.

• Uruguay (1930)
• Italy (1934)
• France (1938)
• Switzerland (1954)
• Sweden (1958)
• England (1966)
• Mexico (1970, 1986)
• Chile (1962)
• Germany (1974, 2006)
• Argentina (1978)
• Spain (1982)
• United States (1994)
• Japan and South Korea (2002)
• South Africa (2010)
• Brazil (2014)
• Russia (2018)
• Qatar (2022)

Looking ahead, future hosts include the United States, Canada, and Mexico in 2026, followed by Morocco, Spain, and Portugal in 2030. South America will see the centenary tournament return to Uruguay, Argentina, and Paraguay.