Euro 2026 Preview: Groups, Favorites, and Dark Horses
The European Championship kicks off next month - here is everything fans need before the first whistle.
Europe’s biggest national team tournament returns with expanded drama, new host cities, and a generation of stars eager to write their legacy.
Tournament Format
Twenty-four nations compete across six groups. The top two from each group advance, along with the four best third-place finishers. Knockout rounds promise extra time and penalty shootouts from the round of 16 onward.
Teams to Watch
France arrive with depth in every position and a manager who has mastered tournament football. Spain blend youth and experience better than anyone. England carry expectation - and a midfield finally matching their attack.
Dark horses include Portugal with a golden generation still hungry, and Croatia, who always find another gear in summer tournaments.
Fan Guide
- Fan zones open in host cities two days before the opener
- Public transport passes cover all stadium routes on match days
- Download the official app for real-time lineups and VAR decisions
Euro 2026 will dominate sports headlines for a month. News4You will cover every matchday.