UEFA introduces new format of World Cup qualification 2026
UEFA is introducing a new format for the 2026 World Cup qualification. There will be 12 groups of 4 or 5 teams, making the competition less predictable and giving more teams a chance to qualify.
In this new format, every team can meet each other and each meeting consists of a home and away game. This was already the case before. Now that there are 2 more groups, 2 teams also have a better chance of qualifying for the World Football Championship.
Groups of 4 or 5 teams
The teams that are divided into groups of 5 will start their qualifying series in March.
Teams still playing in the Nations League quarter-finals or promotion/relegation play-offs will start in June.
Teams playing the UNL Final Four will be divided into groups of 4 starting in September.
Qualification for World Cup 2026
Group winners of this new World Cup qualification qualify directly for the World Championship, while the runners-up take part in the play-off matches.
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UEFA is introducing a new format for the 2026 World Cup qualification. There will be 12 groups of 4 or 5 teams, increasing chances.
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