what countries are qualified for the 2026 world cup

2 min read 14-03-2025

what countries are qualified for the 2026 world cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, a joint venture hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will be the largest World Cup ever, expanding from 32 to 48 teams. This means more nations than ever before will have the chance to compete on the global stage. However, as of October 26, 2023, qualification is still ongoing for many confederations. Let's break down what we know so far.

Confirmed Qualifiers: The Hosts Have a Head Start

The three host nations – the United States, Canada, and Mexico – automatically qualify for the 2026 World Cup. This is standard practice for the host countries. Their participation is already guaranteed, securing three spots in the tournament.

Qualification Process: A Complex System

The remaining 45 spots will be filled through a complex qualification process involving six continental confederations:

AFC (Asia): Eight teams will qualify directly, with at least one team from the AFC going to the inter-confederation play-offs. Qualification matches are still ongoing.
CAF (Africa): Nine teams will qualify directly, making it the largest continental representation after the host nations. The qualification process is still underway, with the final rounds shaping the final qualification table.
CONCACAF (North, Central America, and Caribbean): Besides the USA, Canada, and Mexico, six additional teams will earn automatic qualification. The qualification process is still underway in this confederation.
CONMEBOL (South America): Six teams will qualify directly from South America. This is a significant number, showcasing the strong footballing tradition of the region. While not entirely completed, the qualifying picture is becoming clearer.
OFC (Oceania): The OFC qualification process has concluded. The winner will advance to an inter-confederation play-off, vying for a spot in the World Cup.
UEFA (Europe): The UEFA qualification process has concluded. 16 teams qualified from Europe. They were determined through a rigorous process encompassing group stages and playoffs.

Inter-Confederation Play-offs: A Second Chance

The inter-confederation play-offs offer a chance for teams from different confederations who didn't directly qualify to secure a place in the tournament. These matches are high-stakes encounters with only a few spots available. These play-off spots are still yet to be filled.

Ongoing Qualification: The Race to Qatar 2022 (Wait, what?)

It’s important to note that while the 2026 World Cup is the focus, many qualification matches are currently being played across the globe to determine which nations will make the final tournament.

The Full Picture: Still Unfolding

With the qualification process for many confederations still underway, a complete list of qualified nations for the 2026 World Cup is not yet available. However, keep checking back for updates as the final matches are played and the full lineup of competing nations is revealed. The excitement is building!

Where to Find Updates

For the most up-to-date information, refer to the official FIFA website and your region's football governing body. These sites will provide the latest results and information about the remaining qualification matches.