The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage will feature the largest field in tournament history, with 48 national teams competing for a place in the knockout rounds. This guide explains the group format, how teams qualify, and what fans can expect from the group stage.
For match dates and viewing options, visit the complete FIFA World Cup 2026 guide.
The expanded tournament introduces 12 groups of four teams each. Every team plays three matches during the group stage. The top teams from each group, along with the best-performing third-place teams, advance to the knockout phase.
Teams qualify through regional FIFA confederation tournaments held in the years leading up to the World Cup. Each confederation receives a set number of slots based on FIFA allocation rules.
Host nations automatically qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026:
Additional teams will qualify through continental competitions. This section will be updated as qualification tournaments conclude.
After the group stage, teams progress to the Round of 32. From this point, matches follow a single-elimination format leading to the World Cup final.
Learn more about the next phase in our World Cup 2026 knockout stage guide.