Football’s biggest tournament, the FIFA World Cup 2026, is scheduled to begin on 11 June and will continue until 19 July. It will be co-hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico. This tournament will mark a new era of the World Cup as it will be the first edition to feature 48 teams and a new format.
The New Format
The new format now consists of 48 teams rather than the 32 teams that participated in the previous World Cup. This time there will be 12 groups of four teams, where the top two teams will directly qualify for the next round, while the eight best third-placed teams will qualify for the Round of 32. Overall, there will be 104 matches played across 16 stadiums. Due to the expansion of the competition, each confederation has received more spots for the World Cup.
Direct Slots for the World Cup 2026 (Confederation-wise)
| Confederation | Direct Slots |
| Europe (UEFA) | 16 |
| Africa (CAF) | 9 |
| Asia (AFC) | 8 |
| North/Central America (CONCACAF) | 6 |
| South America (CONMEBOL) | 6 |
| Oceania (OFC) | 1 |
| Intercontinental Playoffs | 2 |
| Total | 48 |
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Contenders for the FIFA World Cup 2026
Argentina
The three-time champions and defending champions are considered a serious threat to all teams after topping their qualification campaign. Led by Lionel Messi, their squad features a good mix of experienced and young players.
France
The winners of the 2018 World Cup and runners-up in 2022 are considered heavy favourites, as they are one of the most consistent teams in international football. While having stars like Kylian Mbappe and Michael Olise, they also possess strong squad depth.
Brazil
Led by Carlo Ancelotti, the five-time World Cup winners will be desperate to lift the trophy this year, having last won it in 2002. They possess a highly competitive squad and hold the record of qualifying for every World Cup
Spain
Spain are also considered heavy favourites. After winning UEFA Euro 2024 by defeating England in the final, they will be aiming for World Cup glory. The team last won the World Cup in 2010 and is known for its possession-based football. Their squad includes several stars, including Lamine Yamal.
England
The Three Lions last won the World Cup in 1966 and will be pushing for the trophy this year with a strong squad featuring stars such as Declan Rice, Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham. The team has also enjoyed deep runs in recent major tournaments.
Players to Watch in FIFA World Cup 2026
Lionel Messi
Without a shadow of a doubt, Lionel Messi is considered one of the greatest players in the history of the game and could be playing his final World Cup. Known for his technique and dribbling ability, he will lead Argentina as captain and hope to win the tournament once again. He also won the Golden Ball in the previous edition.
Kylian Mbappe
The 27-year-old scored a hat-trick in the 2022 World Cup final and won the tournament in 2018. He also claimed the Golden Boot in the previous edition after scoring eight goals. Considered one of the fastest forwards in the world, Mbappe will be exciting to watch this summer.
Lamine Yamal
At just 18 years of age, Yamal has become an important part of Spain’s squad and is widely regarded as one of football’s brightest young talents. He will be playing in his first World Cup and is expected to emerge as one of the tournament’s breakout stars.
Erling Haaland
Considered one of the best strikers in the world, Haaland is known for his physical strength, finishing ability and remarkable goal-scoring record. He could be appearing in his first World Cup and will look to guide his team to a respectable finish.
Cristiano Ronaldo
Cristiano Ronaldo’s final World Cup appearance could become one of the tournament’s biggest storylines as the Portuguese legend looks to add the only major trophy missing from his illustrious career.
As the world prepares for the first-ever 48-team World Cup, excitement continues to grow. With the inclusion of new teams, legendary players and an expanded format, the 2026 FIFA World Cup has all the ingredients to become one of the most memorable editions in the tournament’s history.
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