We’re edging closer to the magic figure of 48, but we won’t know the final six teams to qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup until March 2026.
While qualifying is winding down across the globe, several nations still have plenty of work to do if they’re to book their place at next summer’s tournament. For some, the playoffs represent a nervy burden, while others are absolutely thrilled to have their World Cup hopes alive and kicking.
UEFA’s sizable representation at the 2026 World Cup means they’ll stage their own playoffs, as they did in 2022, while those who scraped out of their respective qualifying processes around the rest of the world will be involved in FIFA’s inter-confederation playoffs.
Thus, the drama and excitement of World Cup qualifying isn’t over, with potentially the most euphoric moments yet to arrive.
Here‘s everything you need to know about the 2026 World Cup playoffs.






