The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to feature a record 48 teams, has seen several nations secure their berths, with defending champions Argentina becoming the first South American side to qualify.
Iran has also confirmed its participation in the tournament, along with Japan and New Zealand.
Next year’s World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will commence on June 11, culminating in the final on July 19.
While the three host nations automatically qualify, 43 teams will earn their places through regional qualifiers. Two additional slots will be determined through intercontinental playoffs scheduled for March 2026.
Breakdown of qualification berths
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Asia (AFC): Eight direct berths, with one additional spot in the intercontinental playoffs.
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Africa (CAF): Nine direct qualifications, with one more team heading to the intercontinental playoffs.
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North and Central America, Caribbean (CONCACAF): Three direct qualifiers, plus two berths in the intercontinental playoffs.
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South America (CONMEBOL): Six direct berths, with one team competing in the intercontinental playoffs.
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Oceania (OFC): A historic first guaranteed spot, secured by New Zealand, with another potential berth via intercontinental playoffs.
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Europe (UEFA): A total of 16 teams will qualify directly.
Teams that have qualified so far
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Host nations: United States, Mexico, Canada
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Asia: Japan (qualified March 20 after a 2-0 victory over Bahrain), Iran (secured on March 25 following a 2-2 draw with Uzbekistan)
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Oceania: New Zealand (qualified March 24 with a 3-0 win over New Caledonia)
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South America: Argentina (secured qualification on March 25 after Bolivia failed to defeat Uruguay)
With many spots still up for grabs, national teams across the globe continue their quest for a place in the biggest edition of the FIFA World Cup yet.
Also read: England beats Latvia 3-0 in World Cup qualifier
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