Qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Europe kicked off in March 2025 and is expected to run until November of the same year. With 55 nations in the mix, the competition is tough. However, Russia’s suspension due to the invasion of Ukraine leaves the competition with 54 nations. The format includes 12 groups of four or five teams, engaging in home and away matches. The group winners will secure direct qualification for the World Cup. The final four spots will be determined through confederation playoffs in March 2026. It is essential to note that there is no route to the World Cup through FIFA’s intercontinental playoffs.
In the Concacaf region, three automatic places for the 2026 World Cup are reserved for the host countries, the United States, Mexico, and Canada. This leaves three spots up for grabs through qualifying, along with two additional spots in the intercontinental playoffs. The concacaf saw 32 nations initially in the race for the World Cup. The format includes multiple rounds, with the final round being played in September, October, and November 2025.
Asia
Asia has its own set of challenges when it comes to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The region commenced its qualifying matches in October 2023, with the final stage expected to wrap up in November 2025. The complex process involves various rounds, with the top nations progressing to subsequent stages. The route to the World Cup in Asia is intricate, with several matches and playoffs determining the final contenders.
In Africa, the race to the 2026 World Cup began in November 2023 and is set to conclude in October 2025. With 53 teams initially vying for a spot, the competition is fierce. The format includes multiple rounds, leading to the eventual qualification of nine group winners for the World Cup. The journey to the World Cup in Africa is grueling, with each match crucial in determining the final contenders.
Oceania
Oceania’s qualifying process for the 2026 World Cup is unique and challenging. With a total of 11 member nations participating, rounds of knockout matches and group stages will determine the final contenders. The matches are spread out over several months, with the top countries from each round moving on to the next stage. The qualification process in Oceania is intense, with each game holding significant importance in the quest for a World Cup spot.
South America
South America’s journey to the 2026 World Cup is filled with excitement and anticipation. With a total of 10 member nations participating, the road to qualification is tough. The format includes multiple rounds of matches, with each game crucial in determining the final contenders. The competition is fierce in South America, with several talented teams competing for a spot in the prestigious tournament.
The road to qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup is challenging and demanding for nations across the globe. With unique formats and intense competition, each region presents its own set of difficulties and obstacles in the quest for a spot in the prestigious tournament. As the qualifying matches progress and the teams battle it out on the field, only time will tell which nations emerge victorious and secure a place in the 2026 World Cup.