World Cup 2026 Qualification Explained: Which Teams Have Qualified and How the Process Works

The 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a significant expansion of the tournament, with the participation of 48 teams. As it stands, 23 countries have already secured their spots, including debutants Jordan and Uzbekistan. Co-hosts for the event will be the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

World Cup 2026 Qualification Explained

European Qualification Process

Europe has 16 qualifying spots available, with no teams yet confirmed. The qualifying phase consists of 12 groups. The winners of each group will qualify directly for the tournament. Meanwhile, second-placed teams will enter a playoff round, also including four of the top-ranked teams from the Nations League not already qualified.

• Qualification for Europe involves:
• 12 groups competing for 16 spots.
• The playoff phase scheduled for March 2026.

South America Qualification Overview

In South America, there are six direct qualifying spots plus one for intercontinental playoffs. Argentina, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay have already qualified.

• Argentina was the first to qualify, followed by Ecuador as a surprise runner-up.
• Brazil qualified despite finishing fifth.
• Bolivia, finishing seventh, will enter the intercontinental playoffs.

Africa Qualification Update

Africa has nine qualifying spots available, along with one for intercontinental playoffs. Currently, Morocco, Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, and Cape Verde have qualified. The tournament format involves nine groups, with group winners advancing.

• First qualification for Cape Verde secured by a win over Eswatini.
• Four best runners-up will enter playoff matches.

Asian Qualification Details

In Asia, eight teams will qualify directly, with one available spot for intercontinental playoffs. Japan and Iran were the first to secure their places, with additional qualifications from Uzbekistan, Jordan, South Korea, and Australia. Teams ranked third and fourth will enter a subsequent round.

Americas Qualification Scenario

Concacaf, covering North and Central America along with the Caribbean, has six qualifying spots available, including the three co-hosts. The new format includes several groups, with top teams advancing to a final round.

• Top two teams from each of six groups will progress.
• Two highest-ranked runners-up will enter intercontinental playoffs.

Oceania Qualification Pathway

Oceania has one qualifying spot available, and New Zealand has already been granted automatic entry. New Caledonia will compete in the intercontinental playoffs, rounding out the qualification processes across the different regions.

Upcoming Dates for World Cup Qualification

The 2026 World Cup promises to be an exciting showcase of global football, with qualification processes varying greatly across continents. As more teams secure their spots, fans worldwide eagerly anticipate the tournament’s kickoff.