https://www.cnet.com/news/google-doodle-celebrates-diverse-cultures-for-world-cup-kickoff/ > The 2018 FIFA World Cup kicks off Thursday in Russia, with a field of 32 teams from around the globe competing in a monthlong tournament that concludes July 15. > Usually referred to as just the World Cup, the tournament is the biggest sporting competition on the planet. During the next month, the men's national teams will compete in 12 venues in 11 cities around Russia. While 20 of the teams are making repeat appearances, including defending champs Germany, there are also some first-timers, including Iceland and Panama.