FIFA World Cup 2026: 13 Teams Already Qualified as the Race for 48 Spots Heats Up

The excitement for the FIFA World Cup 2026 is building as 13 nations have officially secured their places in what promises to be the biggest and most thrilling football event ever staged. With the tournament expanding to 48 teams for the first time in history, fans worldwide are eagerly tracking which countries will book their tickets to the grand spectacle set to unfold across Canada, Mexico, and the United States—the joint host nations.

Confirmed Teams for FIFA World Cup 2026 (So Far)

As of June 2025, these 13 nations have already punched their tickets to football’s grandest stage:

Canada (Host)
Mexico (Host)
United States (Host)
Argentina
Brazil
Ecuador
Japan
Australia
IR Iran
Korea Republic (South Korea)
Uzbekistan
Jordan
New Zealand

The list includes football powerhouses like Brazil, Argentina, and Germany’s Asian rivals Japan, alongside surprise qualifiers like Uzbekistan and Jordan, marking their growing strength on the global football scene.

What’s Next in the Qualification Journey?

While these 13 teams have secured their spots, the battle for the remaining 35 places is far from over. The UEFA European qualifiers, traditionally the fiercest contest, are still in progress. The final matches and playoffs in Europe, along with crucial intercontinental play-offs, are scheduled for March 2026. Only then will the full list of 48 nations be complete.

For now, football fans wait anxiously to see which teams from Europe, Africa, and other regions will rise to the occasion. Traditional giants like Germany, France, Spain, and England are yet to confirm qualification but are strong contenders expected to feature.

FIFA World Cup 2026: Bigger, Bolder, Historic

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is already shaping up to be unlike any previous edition. With the expanded format of 48 teams, more countries will have a chance to shine on football’s grandest stage. This change is expected to bring fresh energy, unpredictability, and excitement.

Key details to remember:

Host Nations: Canada, Mexico, USA
Final Match Date: July 19, 2026
Final Venue: MetLife Stadium, New Jersey, USA

For fans, this tournament also marks the first time matches will be spread across three different nations—a testament to the sport’s ever-growing global appeal.

Which Teams Will Join the Line-Up?

Speculation is rife on who the remaining qualifiers will be. European giants are expected to dominate many spots, while African and CONCACAF teams look to make their mark. The play-off matches in March 2026 will be crucial, possibly giving a final chance to some underdog teams dreaming of World Cup glory.

Stay tuned as the qualification drama unfolds—every game, every goal could change the fate of nations.

Final Thoughts

With 13 nations already in, and 35 more spots open, the road to the FIFA World Cup 2026 is full of anticipation. This tournament promises to be the most inclusive, exciting, and unforgettable World Cup in history.

Whether you’re supporting traditional giants like Brazil or Argentina, cheering for emerging powers like Uzbekistan or Jordan, or waiting to see new European qualifiers, this journey to July 19, 2026, is one no football fan will want to miss.