Analysis

World Cup 2026: The New 48-Team Format

Sportera · 2026-07-04 · 354

The 2026 World Cup, hosted by the USA, Canada and Mexico, expands from 32 to 48 teams — the biggest edition ever.

How it works

The 48 nations are split into groups, with more teams advancing to the knockouts, meaning more matches and more chances for nations that rarely qualify.

What it means for Arab football

More slots improve the odds for Arab, African and Asian nations, making qualifying more exciting.

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