With the qualification process for the first-ever 48-team FIFA World Cup in 2026 well underway, a dozen nations have already booked their tickets to the global showpiece to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The three host nations lead the list of early entrants, joined by a contingent of teams from Asia, South America, and Oceania.
The co-hosts, Canada, Mexico, and the United States**, received automatic qualification, securing their places without kicking a ball in the qualifiers. They will be at the heart of a tournament designed to be the most inclusive in history.
From the Asian Football Confederation (AFC), six nations have navigated the qualification gauntlet to confirm their participation. Football powerhouses Japan, South Korea, Iran, and Australia are among the familiar faces set to grace the world stage once again. They are joined by Uzbekistan, who will be making their historic debut at a senior men's FIFA World Cup, and Jordan, who also qualified, marking a significant achievement for the nation.
In South America, the CONMEBOL qualifiers have seen three of the continent's traditional giants secure their passage. Reigning champions Argentina, five-time winners Brazil, and a resilient Ecuador have all claimed their spots in the expanded tournament.
The sole automatic qualification spot from the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC) has been claimed by New Zealand, who will be making their return to the World Cup finals.
Meanwhile, the qualification battles in Africa (CAF) and Europe (UEFA) are still in full swing. No teams from these confederations have yet secured their place, with a host of matches still to be played. The qualification processes in these regions are expected to conclude in the latter stages of 2025 and early 2026.
The road to the 2026 World Cup continues, with many more nations vying for the remaining spots. The final lineup of 48 teams will be confirmed upon the conclusion of all continental qualifying campaigns and the inter-confederation play-offs.
