FIFA have confirmed the time and date for the UEFA nations in the World Cup draw. The preliminary draw, set to take place at the Home of FIFA in Zurich, Switzerland, will determine the path for European teams seeking a spot in the 2026 tournament.
Expanded Tournament, More Opportunities
This year’s World Cup marks a historic milestone with an unprecedented 48-team format, expanding UEFA’s representation from 13 to 16 teams. The draw will be live-streamed globally on FIFA.com and FIFA+, allowing fans worldwide to witness the first steps of their national teams’ qualification campaign.
Qualification Format
The UEFA qualifying group stage will follow a familiar structure:
– 12 groups of four or five teams
– Group winners qualify directly for the World Cup
– Matches will run from March to November 2025
Playoff Pathway
Four additional spots will be determined through a 16-team playoff in March 2026, involving:
– 12 group-stage runners-up
– 4 best-ranked UEFA Nations League 2024-25 group winners who haven’t already qualified
