The 2026 World Cup is drawing near, and many major national teams are contesting for qualification. Notable teams like Argentina, Japan, and New Zealand have secured their places. The first-ever 48-team World Cup will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico starting June 11, 2026, ending on July 19.
Teams That Have Qualified
- United States - tournament hosts
- Mexico - tournament hosts
- Canada - tournament hosts
- Japan - qualified from the AFC third round
- New Zealand - Oceania champions
- Argentina - qualified from CONMEBOL
Latest Developments
As European qualifiers get underway, no teams have been confirmed. However, New Zealand won their final match against Fiji, affirming their qualification. Lionel Messi and Argentina secured their spots this month, defending their title after Bolivia’s draw against Uruguay. Other potential qualifiers include Iran and Uzbekistan from the AFC.
European Contenders
Teams like Spain, Germany, and England are frontrunners to qualify. Spain, the 2024 European Champions, aims to pursue the World Cup trophy with players such as Lamine Yamal. England, under new manager Thomas Tuchel, is expected to be a strong contender alongside France, whose coach Didier Deschamps is concluding his tenure.
Final Thoughts
Italy, after missing the last two World Cups, is also fighting for qualification alongside teams like Switzerland and Belgium, which could face challenging paths. They must navigate their respective groups successfully to earn a spot.
This qualification period promises to be intensely competitive, with high expectations for historically successful nations and emerging talents alike.
