England’s place is booked – what’s still at stake in final World Cup qualifiers?
As the excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team has provided an insightful overview of the teams that have already secured their places in the tournament. Set to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, this World Cup marks a significant milestone as it will be the first to feature an expanded format with 48 teams, up from the traditional 32. This change not only increases the number of participating nations but also intensifies the competition, allowing more countries to showcase their talents on the world stage.
As of now, several teams have already qualified, including host nations the United States, Mexico, and Canada, which automatically gain entry into the tournament. Other nations that have punched their tickets include traditional powerhouses such as Brazil, Germany, and Argentina, who are known for their rich footballing history and passionate fanbases. Notably, the qualification process has seen some surprises, with teams like Morocco and Japan making headlines for their impressive performances in regional qualifiers. The qualification journey has been a rollercoaster, with thrilling matches and unexpected results that have captivated fans globally.
The 2026 World Cup is set to be historic, not just for its expanded format but also for its potential to unite diverse cultures across North America through the universal language of football. As more nations continue to vie for qualification in the coming months, anticipation builds for what promises to be an unforgettable tournament. With the stage set for a grand display of talent and sportsmanship, fans are eager to see which teams will ultimately rise to the occasion and etch their names into World Cup history.
BBC Sport’s Ask Me Anything team looks at who has qualified for next year’s Fifa World Cup.
