David Squires Sketches Out the World Cup 2026 Group Stage
As the World Cup 2026 hub begins to heat up with group stage action across the United States, Mexico and Canada, it is not just the footballers drawing attention — satirists are getting in on the act too.
The Guardian’s long-running cartoonist David Squires has published his latest illustrated commentary on the tournament, offering a comic lens on proceedings as the competition’s opening matches get under way. According to The Guardian, Squires’ cartoon touches on the “thirst for adverts” — a nod to the heavy commercial presence that tends to accompany major international tournaments of this scale.
Squires is a familiar figure for football fans who follow The Guardian’s coverage. His hand-drawn observations have become a reliable fixture during big tournaments, poking fun at the spectacle, the media noise and the broader circus that surrounds elite football. This latest piece continues that tradition as the 2026 edition — one of the most expansive World Cups in history given its 48-team format — takes shape.
For UK viewers and bettors keeping tabs on early group stage results, the sheer volume of fixtures across three host nations makes this a tournament unlike any previous edition. The spread of venues and time zones means matches are running at unusual kick-off times, which has added to a slightly disjointed feel in the opening days — something that satirists like Squires are well placed to skewer.
Those wanting to keep track of how groups are shaping up can check the live standings as the action continues.
On a commercial note, Squires has also released a book — Chaos in the Box — which is currently available for those who enjoy his style of football illustration beyond the newspaper page.
While the source material from The Guardian is light on detail, the cartoon’s publication is a small but telling sign that the World Cup 2026 conversation is now well and truly open — on the pitch and off it.