Why does the World Cup have a third-place match? Tradition held since 1954

England and France are set to face off in the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place match at Hard Rock Stadium in Florida, a contest that often raises the question: Why does the World Cup include a third-place match at all? While it may lack the prestige of the final, this fixture provides one last opportunity for redemption on the world stage. The World Cup third-place match brings together the two teams that fell short in the semifinals: England, which lost a close 2-1 battle to Argentina, and France, which was defeated 2-0 by Spain. Although their dreams of lifting the trophy have ended, this match gives both sides a final chance to finish their tournament with a victory and bring home a tangible reward. The winner claims the bronze medal, while the runner-up faces the disappointment of another defeat. Beyond the pride and the bronze medal, substantial financial incentives are on the line. The team finishing third will receive a performance-based payout of $29 million, while the fourth-place side will earn $27 million. While some debate its necessity, the tradition of the third-place match dates back to the 1934 tournament and has been a fixture at every men’s World Cup since 1954. England's most recent appearance in the third-place match was in 2018, ultimately falling 2-0 to Belgium. France’s last third-place match came in 1986, when they triumphed 4-2 over Belgium. What time is France vs. England World Cup match? France and England's third-place FIFA World Cup match kicks off at 5 p.m. ET.