Switzerland meet Qatar in their 2026 FIFA World Cup Group B opener at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California on Saturday 13 June 2026. The match pairs Europe’s long-established tournament regulars against a Qatar side making their first appearance since hosting the 2022 World Cup.
What is the FIFA World Cup 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is the 23rd edition of the men’s world championship and the first tournament co-hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada and Mexico. It is the first World Cup to feature 48 teams, divided into 12 groups of four. The top two from each group, plus the eight best third-placed sides, progress to a new Round of 32 knockout phase.
When is Switzerland vs Qatar?
Kick-off is at 12:00 local time (PDT) on Saturday 13 June 2026. That is 15:00 ET on the US East Coast, 20:00 BST in the United Kingdom, and 22:00 local time in Doha.
Where is Switzerland vs Qatar being played?
The match is at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, home of the NFL’s San Francisco 49ers. The stadium has a capacity of around 68,500 and will host six matches during the tournament. A natural grass surface will be installed over the artificial pitch for the World Cup.
Key Contenders
Switzerland qualified through UEFA qualifying under head coach Murat Yakin and bring their typical mix of tournament experience and squad depth. Manchester City midfielder Granit Xhaka captains the side, with Inter Milan’s Yann Sommer in goal, Freiburg full-back Manuel Akanji in defence and Borussia Monchengladbach’s Breel Embolo leading the line. The Swiss have reached the Round of 16 at each of the last four World Cups.
Qatar return to the World Cup for only the second time and the first via sporting qualification, having come through the AFC route. Head coach Bartolome Marquez continues the project built on the 2019 and 2023 Asian Cup wins, with captain Hassan Al-Haydos, forward Almoez Ali and Al Sadd defender Boualem Khoukhi central to the side. Qatar face a steep challenge against Swiss opposition with greater pedigree.
How to Watch Switzerland vs Qatar
In the United Kingdom, the match is free-to-air on BBC or ITV with streaming on BBC iPlayer and ITVX. In the United States, FOX carries English-language coverage while Telemundo and Peacock show the Spanish-language broadcast. Swiss viewers can watch on SRF, RTS or RSI, and Qatari viewers on beIN Sports. FIFA+ offers streaming in selected markets globally.
History and Records
Switzerland and Qatar have never met competitively. Switzerland’s best World Cup finish was a quarter-final appearance in 1934, 1938 and 1954 as hosts, while Qatar’s only previous World Cup saw them finish bottom of their group in 2022 with three defeats.
Tickets and Attendance
Tickets are sold via FIFA’s official ticketing portal at fifa.com/tickets. Hospitality packages remain available through On Location, FIFA’s official hospitality partner.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does Switzerland vs Qatar kick off?
At 12:00 PDT (15:00 ET) on Saturday 13 June 2026, which is 20:00 BST.
Where is Switzerland vs Qatar being held?
At Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.
How can I watch Switzerland vs Qatar?
BBC or ITV in the UK, FOX and Telemundo in the US, SRF/RTS/RSI in Switzerland, beIN Sports in Qatar.
Have Switzerland and Qatar met before at a World Cup?
No. This is their first-ever World Cup meeting.