The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, for the tournament to be hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, have entered a decisive stage.
Japan was the first team to qualify on March 20, followed by New Zealand, Iran, Argentina, Uzbekistan, South Korea, Jordan, Australia, Brazil, Ecuador, Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay.
In South America, the qualification race is nearly over. The last three automatic spots were decided on Thursday, when Venezuela’s 3-0 defeat to Argentina sealed qualification for Uruguay, Colombia, and Paraguay. They join Brazil, Ecuador, and Argentina, who had already booked their tickets.
The only remaining question in South America is who will go to the international playoff, which will be decided in the final matchday on Tuesday. Venezuela currently sits seventh, one point above Bolivia. A win against Colombia would secure their playoff place, though even a draw could be enough if Bolivia fails to beat Brazil in La Paz. Bolivia, meanwhile, faces an almost impossible mission: they must win and hope Venezuela does no better than a draw.
In Europe, qualifiers began on March 21 and will run until November 2025. Fifty-four nations are competing, with the exception of Russia, which remains suspended due to the war in Ukraine. The system foresees 12 groups, with group winners qualifying directly, while second-placed teams head to the playoffs. Four additional tickets will be awarded in March 2026 through a special playoff format that also includes Nations League winners.
In Africa, four rounds of matches remain, with the first teams possibly securing their spots as early as next week.
In Asia, six teams have already qualified, with the next stage starting in October.
In Oceania, the process is complete: New Zealand qualified directly, while New Caledonia will play in the international playoff.
The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition with 48 teams. So far, in addition to the three host nations, 13 other teams have secured their places. The race across continents promises a dramatic conclusion for the remaining spots.
