The 2026 World Cup is set to be the largest in the tournament’s history, featuring 48 teams and hosted collaboratively by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This expansion marks a significant increase from previous tournaments, offering more nations the opportunity to compete on the world stage.
Brazil, a five-time World Cup champion, secured its participation on Tuesday with a 1-0 victory over Paraguay, maintaining its record as the only country to have participated in every edition of the World Cup. In South America, Ecuador also booked its place after a goalless draw against Peru. Meanwhile, Australia earned its qualification ahead of time by defeating Saudi Arabia 2-1 in the Asian qualifiers.
Of the 48 available spots for 2026, 43 will be determined through continental qualifying competitions. An additional two teams will gain entry through intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026, involving six teams. The United States, Mexico, and Canada have automatic entries as the host nations.
The breakdown of spots is as follows: Asia is allocated eight direct slots and one playoff spot; Africa will have nine direct entries with an additional playoff chance; North and Central America, including the Caribbean, receive three direct berths plus the three host nations and two playoff entries. South America will see six direct entries and another in the playoffs. Oceania, historically an underrepresented region, now has a guaranteed slot in the tournament—with New Zealand already qualifying—and potentially one playoff spot. Europe is set to have 16 teams in the event.
As of now, the countries that have qualified include:
**Hosts**
– United States, Mexico, Canada (qualified automatically as hosts)
**Asia**
– Japan (qualified on March 20)
– Iran (qualified on March 25)
– Jordan (qualified on June 5)
– South Korea (qualified on June 5)
– Uzbekistan (qualified on June 5)
– Australia (qualified on June 10)
**Oceania**
– New Zealand (qualified on March 24)
**South America**
– Argentina (qualified on March 25)
– Brazil (qualified on June 10)
– Ecuador (qualified on June 10)
This lineup sets the stage for a diverse and competitive World Cup, highlighting the global reach and appeal of soccer.