Host Nations and Early Qualifiers
The countdown to the FIFA World Cup 2026 has begun, and with the tournament expanding to 48 teams and three host nations for the first time, the race for spots in this prestigious event is more thrilling than ever.
As of now, 13 teams have secured their qualification, leaving a global battle for the remaining 35 spots.
The host nations—Canada, Mexico, and the United States—have their places guaranteed and are preparing to welcome the world’s top teams.
Mexico, in particular, will make history as the first country to host the World Cup three times (1970, 1986, and now 2026).
Beyond the hosts, qualification proceedings have advanced in several confederations, and we now know 10 teams that have joined the party.
Confederación Asiática de Fútbol (AFC):
The Asian region was among the first to determine its representatives. Japan secured its spot through qualifiers, followed by Iran, Uzbekistan, Jordan, the Republic of Korea, and Australia, all earning direct passage.
Confederación Sudamericana de Fútbol (CONMEBOL):
As expected, competition in South America has been fierce. However, three powerhouses have secured their places.
The reigning world champions, Argentina, clinched their spot well ahead of schedule. Brazil, the only team to have participated in every World Cup edition, and Ecuador, which returns to the world stage, have also secured their spots.
Confederación de Fútbol de Oceanía (OFC):
In Oceania, New Zealand emerged victorious to claim the region’s sole direct spot.
The Battle for Remaining Spots
Although we know a dozen teams, the majority of the spots are still up for grabs. The competition will intensify in the coming months, with crucial dates across different confederations.
CONMEBOL:
With three teams already qualified, the final stretch of South American qualifiers will resume in September.
Teams like Uruguay, Paraguay, and Colombia are on the brink of joining the list, with the possibility of securing their spot in upcoming matches.
Confederación Africana de Fútbol (CAF):
September will be a critical month for African qualification proceedings. Nine group winners will secure direct passage, with several contenders vying for a spot in the World Cup.
Confederación Asiática de Fútbol (AFC):
Following the third round, attention shifts to the final stages. Six teams will compete in the fourth round, where two additional spots will be decided, while a third-place team will contend in the playoffs.
Unión de Federaciones Europeas de Fútbol (UEFA):
The European qualification phase has just begun, so no teams have qualified yet. Sixteen direct spots are at stake, promising one of the most competitive qualifiers globally.
The Draw That Will Determine World Cup Groups
Anticipation for the World Cup draw is one of the most eagerly awaited moments by football fans worldwide.
US President Donald Trump, alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, announced that the draw will take place on 5 December 2025.
The event will be held at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.
Key Questions and Answers
- Who are the confirmed teams for FIFA World Cup 2026? – As of now, 13 teams have secured their spots, including the host nations: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
- Which confederations have advanced in qualification proceedings? – Teams from the Asiatic Football Confederation (AFC), South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL), Oceanian Football Confederation (OFC), African Football Confederation (CAF), and European Football Union (UEFA) have all made progress.
- When will the remaining spots be determined? – The final six spots will be decided through a playoff involving teams from AFC, CAF, CONMEBOL, and two from Concacaf. The last spot will be contested between Concacaf and Oceanian representatives.
- When and where will the World Cup draw take place? – The draw is scheduled for 5 December 2025 at the Kennedy Center in Washington D.C.
