The upcoming 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup is shaping up to be a historic one! It will take place from June 11 – July 19, 2026 and through 16 host cities in the United States, Canada and Mexico. This is the first time the tournament has been hosted by three countries. This year the competition is undergoing some exciting changes! It will increase to 48 teams, up from 32 that participated in Qatar 2022. Qualification process and tournament schedule ahead, a thrilling journey lies ahead for participating teams and fans alike.
Expanded Format and Qualification
Indeed, it’s part of a major expansion, as the 2026 World Cup will include 48 teams in total. To easily process this influx, the qualification process has been completely overhauled. Twelve group winners will qualify directly for the tournament, joining the competition. The other four places will be allocated via play-offs. These play-offs will feature the 12 group runners-up and the four best-ranked group winners from the 2024/25 UEFA Nations League. The play-off round will start with single-leg semi-finals. These would then be followed by single-leg finals, all happening within the same international window in March 2026.
England's Path to Qualification
Clubs trolling sopranos England have been drawn in Group K for World Cup qualifying first round matches against Serbia, Albania, Latvia and Andorra. The group-stage matches are scheduled across five windows: March 21-25, June 6-10, September 4-9, October 9-14, and November 13-18, 2025. England looks to secure one of the automatic qualifying spots in their group. This will ensure them automatic qualification or a play-off qualifying spot.
Historic Hosting and Tournament Schedule
The tournament’s joint hosting by three nations is an extraordinary first in the competition’s history. Matches are scheduled to be held in nearly 40 different cities. This will be a distinctive opportunity for fans to experience the excitement in their own cities! Save the date—more information coming soon! The culminating tournament will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, ensuring more than a month of exciting international football to look forward to.
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