FIFA has completed the draw for the 2026 World Cup in Canada, Mexico and the United States, producing a 12‑group first round that features heavyweight clashes, emerging nations and several spots still to be decided through playoff routes.
The tournament’s new format sees 48 teams split into 12 groups of four, with the top two in each group plus the eight best third‑placed teams advancing to a 32‑team knockout phase. Traditional powers such as Brazil, Argentina, France, England, Germany, Spain and Portugal headline their respective groups, while co‑hosts Mexico, Canada and the USA also lead Groups A, B and D.
Several debutants and smaller nations, including Curaçao, Haiti, Cape Verde and Uzbekistan, add fresh intrigue to the competition, reflecting FIFA’s push for broader global representation. Six positions in the graphic remain marked for European and intercontinental playoff winners, which will be decided in early 2026 and could introduce additional high‑profile teams into already competitive sections.
Groups such as Group L, featuring England, Croatia, Ghana and Panama, and Group J, containing Argentina, Algeria, Austria and Jordan, are already being highlighted by analysts as potential “groups to watch” due to their mix of champions, strong contenders and dangerous underdogs. With the draw now set, attention turns to preparation camps, friendlies and tactical planning as the football world counts down to kick‑off on June 11, 2026, across venues in North America.
