The picture for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is becoming clear as most qualification spots have been secured, while others will be decided in the upcoming intercontinental play-offs.
The tournament, featuring 48 teams for the first time, will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
🌍 Teams Qualified So Far
🏠 Host Nations
United States
Canada
Mexico
🇦🇸 Asia
Eight nations have already secured their places:
Japan, South Korea, Iran, Uzbekistan, Australia, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Jordan (making their debut).
The UAE and Iraq will face off in the Asian play-off for a place in the intercontinental play-off.
🌍 Africa
Nine African teams are confirmed:
Morocco, Egypt, Tunisia, Algeria, Senegal, Ivory Coast, Ghana, South Africa, and Cape Verde (first-ever qualification).
Meanwhile, Nigeria, Cameroon, Gabon, and DR Congo will compete in an African mini-play-off to decide the continent’s representative in the global play-off.
🇪🇺 Europe
England became the first European side to qualify after defeating Latvia, while other major nations continue their campaigns.
🇧🇷 South America
The South American powerhouses are all through:
Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, Colombia, Ecuador, and Paraguay.
Bolivia will compete in the intercontinental play-off.
🇳🇿 Oceania
New Zealand qualified directly, while New Caledonia will head to the global play-off.
⚔️ Intercontinental Play-off Details
The intercontinental play-offs will take place between March 23 and 31, 2026, involving six teams from five confederations (excluding Europe).
They will be split into two groups of three, with the winner of each group booking a spot at the World Cup.
🏆 A New Era for the World Cup
The expanded format will feature 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top two and the eight best third-placed teams advancing to the round of 32.
It will be the largest World Cup in history, setting new records for teams, matches, and attendance.
