With the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawing closer, excitement is building for what promises to be the biggest tournament in history — featuring 48 teams for the first time. The competition, jointly hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, will welcome football’s elite from every continent.
So far, 28 nations have officially qualified, leaving 20 spots still open as qualifiers continue across the globe.
Host Nations
As co-hosts, Canada, Mexico, and the United States automatically booked their places.
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Canada will make consecutive appearances for the first time after featuring in 1986 and 2022.
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Mexico will host the event for a record third time, marking their 18th World Cup appearance.
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The United States secure a 12th World Cup appearance, their second on home soil after USA 1994.
Asia (AFC)
Eight teams have qualified from Asia.
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Japan, South Korea, and Iran maintained their consistent records.
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Uzbekistan and Jordan made history by qualifying for their first-ever World Cups.
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Australia, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar also secured their tickets after strong qualifying campaigns.
Africa (CAF)
Africa will be represented by nine nations.
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Morocco became the continent’s first qualifier, followed by Tunisia, Egypt, Algeria, Ghana, Côte d’Ivoire, Senegal, South Africa, and debutants Cabo Verde, who made history with their first qualification.
South America (CONMEBOL)
Six South American powerhouses have confirmed their spots.
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Defending champions Argentina lead the list, alongside Brazil, Uruguay, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Colombia — who return after missing Qatar 2022.
Oceania (OFC)
New Zealand booked their ticket by defeating New Caledonia 3–0 in the OFC final, marking their third World Cup appearance.
Europe (UEFA)
So far, only England have officially qualified from Europe, comfortably sealing their eighth consecutive appearance after a dominant campaign.
Concacaf (North and Central America)
Aside from the host nations, no other Concacaf team has yet secured qualification, with the regional qualifiers still ongoing.
The 2026 tournament will mark a new era for global football — with more teams, more matches, and more dreams coming to life across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
