33 Nations Seal Qualification for 2026 FIFA World Cup as Global Race Intensifies
Thirty-three countries from across six continents have officially secured their places at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, following the latest round of qualifiers concluded on Thursday. The expanded tournament, which will feature 48 teams for the first time in history, is jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The qualification race, which has seen intense competition across federations, is now entering its final stages, with only 15 spots left to be claimed before the global football showpiece kicks off in June 2026.
So far, a mix of traditional football powerhouses and rising contenders have confirmed their places. Among them are former champions Brazil, Germany, Argentina, and France, alongside emerging sides who have delivered standout performances in their qualification campaigns.
In Africa, the race remains wide open as teams push for the nine direct qualification tickets allocated to the continent under the expanded format. Several high-performing sides are on the brink of sealing their spots as the final fixtures draw closer.
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Asia, Europe, South America, CONCACAF, and Oceania have also recorded crucial results, shaping the list of teams headed to North America next year.
With just a few international windows remaining before the final lineup is completed, global anticipation continues to rise for what is expected to be the biggest and most commercially successful World Cup ever staged.
FIFA is expected to release an updated qualification bulletin next week as teams battle for the remaining slots.
33 Nations Seal Qualification for 2026 FIFA World Cup as Global Race Intensifies