sports

Every FIFA World Cup Host: Footy on the Big Stage

(Photo by Fu Tian/China News Service/VCG via Getty Images)

Published Nov 22, 2023

So you're wondering who has been a FIFA World Cup host throughout the history of footy's most iconic event? Let's get in to it!

The World Cup is the premier international soccer competition. It is contested by the men's national teams of the member countries of FIFA, the sport's global governing body. The tournament has a rich history dating back to its inaugural edition in 1930, and it has since grown into one of the most widely viewed and celebrated sporting events across the globe. For a breakdown of every Men's World Cup winner, check out this article.

Related: Most World Cup Appearances

The selection of a host nation involves a rigorous bidding process where countries present their proposals to FIFA, detailing their plans for stadiums, accommodations, transportation, and overall logistical readiness. The host nation plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere and identity of each World Cup edition, creating a unique blend of football fervor and local culture. In 2026, the United States is set to host the event, and we put together this article of which American cities games should be played in.

Here is a breakdown of every FIFA World Cup host throughout the history of the illustrious competition:

2022: Qatar

(Photo by Maja Hitij - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Winner: Argentina
Finals Stadium: Lusail Stadium

Qatar had been preparing for the tournament with substantial investments in infrastructure, including the construction of state-of-the-art stadiums, transportation networks, and other facilities. The event featured matches in several cities across Qatar, with the final taking place at the Lusail Iconic Stadium in Lusail, a city built just for the World Cup. The final was one of the most memorable in World Cup history, with Argentina claiming victory after a penalty shootout.

2018: Russia

(Photo by Christian Charisius/picture alliance via Getty Images)

Winner: France
Finals Stadium: Luzhniki Stadium

The 2018 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Russia, marking the first time the tournament was held in Eastern Europe. The event took place from June 14 to July 15, 2018, and featured matches in various cities across Russia.

The tournament had 32 participating teams from around the world, competing in a total of 64 matches. France emerged as the champions, winning their second World Cup title. They defeated Croatia 4-2 in the final held at the Luzhniki Stadium in Moscow. Goals from Antoine Griezmann, Paul Pogba, Kylian Mbappé, and an own goal by Mario Mandzukic secured the victory for the French team.

2014: Brasil

(Photo by VI Images via Getty Images)

Winner: Germany
Finals Stadium: Maracanã Stadium

The 2014 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Brazil and took place from June 12 to July 13, 2014. It was the 20th edition of the tournament and featured matches in various cities across Brazil. Germany defeated Argentina 1-0 in the final held at the Maracanã Stadium in Rio de Janeiro. The only goal of the match was scored by Mario Götze in extra time.

2010: South Africa

(Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

Winner: Spain
Finals Stadium: Soccer City

The hosting of the World Cup in South Africa was significant not only for the sporting event but also for being a historic moment as the first time the tournament was held on the African continent. The event was celebrated for its cultural diversity and the enthusiasm of the South African people, including an electrical call from Peter Drury to open the competition.

2006: Germany

(Photo by Alessandro Sabattini/Getty Images)

Winner: Italy
Finals Stadium: Olympiastadion

The 2006 FIFA World Cup was hosted by Germany and took place from June 9 to July 9, 2006. It was the 18th edition of the tournament and featured matches in various cities across Germany. Italy won the tournament, defeating France in the final held at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.

The match ended 1-1 after extra time, and Italy won 5-3 in the penalty shootout. The winning penalty was scored by Fabio Grosso. One of the most memorable moments of the tournament occurred in the final when French captain Zinedine Zidane headbutted Italian defender Marco Materazzi. Zidane was subsequently shown a red card and sent off in his last professional match.

2002: South Korea/Japan

(Photo by Christopher Lee - FIFA/FIFA via Getty Images)

Winner: Brazil
Finals Stadium: International Stadium Yokohama

The 2002 FIFA World Cup was jointly hosted by South Korea and Japan, making it the first World Cup held in Asia. The tournament took place from May 31 to June 30, 2002, and featured matches in various cities across both host nations. This edition was the 17th installment of the FIFA World Cup and had 32 participating teams. Brazil won the tournament, defeating Germany 2-0 in the final held at the International Stadium Yokohama in Yokohama, Japan. Ronaldo scored both goals for Brazil, securing their fifth World Cup title.

1998: France

(Photo by Christian Liewig/TempSport/Corbis via Getty Images)

Winner: France
Finals Stadium: Stade de France

The 1998 FIFA World Cup was hosted by France and took place from June 10 to July 12, 1998. It was the 16th edition of the tournament and featured matches in various cities across France. The competition included 32 teams from around the world. France won the tournament, defeating Brazil 3-0 in the final held at the Stade de France in Saint-Denis, a suburb of Paris.

Zinedine Zidane scored twice with two headers from corner kicks, and Emmanuel Petit added a third goal in injury time. France's success as the host nation added to the jubilant atmosphere. The French team, led by coach Aimé Jacquet, showcased a blend of talented players and effective team dynamics.