The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to make history by featuring 48 teams for the first time. Defending champions Argentina became the first team from South America to secure their spot in the upcoming tournament, joined by Iran, which also confirmed its participation.
New Zealand claimed its place on Monday, following Japan, which was the first nation outside of the three host countries to qualify last week. The event will unfold across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, beginning on June 11, with the grand final scheduled for July 19.
A total of 43 teams will earn their spots through regional qualifying tournaments. Additionally, two entries will be determined via international playoffs, involving six teams competing in March 2026.
The qualification spots are distributed across regions: Asia receives eight direct entries and an extra opportunity through the intercontinental playoff. Africa has been allocated nine direct spots, along with one in the intercontinental playoff. North, Central America, and the Caribbean are granted three automatic entries, as well as two more chances through intercontinental playoffs. Meanwhile, South America is allotted six direct spots and a place in the intercontinental playoffs.
Oceania is guaranteed a place in the tournament for the first time after New Zealand’s 3-0 victory over New Caledonia in Auckland. Additionally, New Caledonia will have the chance to compete in the intercontinental playoffs. Europe, as it stands, will hold 16 teams in the next World Cup.
Regarding qualifications thus far, the host countries automatically earn their places, occupying three of the slots allocated to the CONCACAF region. These nations are the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
Asian qualifiers include Japan, who secured their position after defeating Bahrain 2-0, and Iran, who qualified through a 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan. In Oceania, New Zealand’s success against New Caledonia solidified their position. From South America, Argentina claimed its spot following Bolivia’s failure to overcome Uruguay.
