Which Teams Have Qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is coming to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It will be the first World Cup with 48 teams. This article explains which countries have already qualified for the tournament.
Automatic Qualifiers
As host nations, the United States, Canada, and Mexico automatically qualify. This means they don’t have to play qualifying matches. They are already guaranteed a spot in the tournament.
Qualified Teams So Far
Besides the host nations, other teams have also secured their place. As of November 2025, these teams have qualified through their regional qualifying tournaments.
So far, these teams are in:
- United States (Host)
- Canada (Host)
- Mexico (Host)
More teams will qualify in the coming months. Qualifying matches are still being played around the world. These matches determine which other teams will participate.
How Qualifying Works
FIFA divides the world into different regions. Each region has its own qualifying tournament. Teams compete against each other in these tournaments. The top teams from each region qualify for the World Cup. The number of teams that qualify from each region depends on FIFA’s allocation.
North, Central America, and Caribbean (CONCACAF)
In addition to the three host nations, other teams from CONCACAF will qualify. These teams will be determined through the CONCACAF qualifying tournament.
South America (CONMEBOL)
Several teams from South America will also qualify. The CONMEBOL qualifying tournament is very competitive. It features some of the best teams in the world.
Europe (UEFA)
Europe has the most spots in the World Cup. Many European teams will qualify through the UEFA qualifying tournament.
Africa (CAF)
Several African teams will qualify for the World Cup. The CAF qualifying tournament is always exciting.
Asia (AFC)
Teams from Asia will also compete for spots in the World Cup. The AFC qualifying tournament includes many strong teams.
Oceania (OFC)
One team from Oceania is guaranteed a spot in the World Cup. The OFC qualifying tournament determines which team it will be.
When Will More Teams Qualify?
More teams will qualify throughout 2025. The final list of qualified teams will be known closer to the start of the tournament in 2026. Keep following the news for updates.
World Cup 2026: What to Expect
The 2026 World Cup will be the biggest ever. With 48 teams, it will feature more matches and more excitement. It’s an event that soccer fans in the United States and around the world are eagerly anticipating.
Source: usatoday.com