By Dieudonne Tebit | March 26, 2025

With the road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup heating up across the globe, several nations have already secured their place at what promises to be the biggest tournament in the history of international football. The expanded format will feature 48 teams for the first time, and as of March 2025, seven nations have officially qualified.

Automatically Qualified Hosts
Three countries will co-host the 2026 edition of the tournament the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As hosts, all three nations earned automatic qualification and will each be playing World Cup matches on home soil.

This marks the second time the U.S. will host the tournament (after 1994), the third time for Mexico (after 1970 and 1986 the most of any nation), and the first time for Canada, which previously hosted the FIFA Women’s World Cup in 2015.

Qualified Through Regional Competitions

1. Argentina (CONMEBOL)
   The reigning world champions became the first South American team to qualify for the 2026 tournament. Under Lionel Scaloni, Argentina has been dominant in the CONMEBOL qualifiers, topping the standings with several matches to spare. Their depth, consistency, and hunger to defend their title make them early favorites.
2. Japan (AFC)                                                                                                                                                                                                                       Japan was the first team globally to qualify through competitive matches. Their efficient campaign in the Asian qualifiers confirmed their seventh consecutive appearance at the World Cup. Known for their tactical discipline and ever-improving attacking play, Japan will look to build on their Round of 16 finish in 2022.
3. Iran (AFC)                                                                                                                                                                                                                              Iran also booked their ticket to North America with a strong qualification run. Despite political controversies including concerns about potential U.S. visa issues Team Melli remains one of Asia’s most consistent World Cup participants and will be eager to impress on the global stage.
4. New Zealand (OFC)                                                                                                                                                                                                              New Zealand qualified through the Oceania Football Confederation (OFC), continuing their dominance in the region. As OFC’s top representative, the All Whites are set to make their third World Cup appearance, aiming for a stronger showing than in previous editions.

 
More Spots Still Up for Grabs
With 48 slots available, the road to qualification is far from over. Fierce battles continue in Europe (UEFA), Africa (CAF), Asia (AFC), North/Central America (CONCACAF), South America (CONMEBOL), and Oceania (OFC), with intercontinental playoffs still to come. Powerhouses like France, England, Germany, Brazil, and Senegal are all vying to secure their spots in the coming months.

The expanded format will not only increase global representation but also create opportunities for debutant nations to make history.