The 2026 World Cup will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, featuring an expanded field. Argentina seeks to defend its title as various confederations begin their qualification processes. Start dates include CONMEBOL (September 2023), AFC (October 2023), CAF (November 2023), CONCACAF (March 2024), OFC (September 2024), and UEFA (March 2025).
The 2026 World Cup will take place in North America, with the United States, Canada, and Mexico hosting and competing in the prestigious tournament. This will be the 23rd edition of the World Cup, which features an expanded format to accommodate more teams. This central hub will provide up-to-date information, including qualification schedules, results, standings, and a list of qualified teams.
Argentina, the reigning champions, are already preparing to defend their title at the upcoming tournament. They, along with other teams from the CONMEBOL confederation, began their qualification process in September 2023. Meanwhile, the AFC (Asian Football Confederation) also commenced their qualification phase in October 2023, while Africa began in November 2023.
Qualification schedules for each confederation are staggered, ensuring that the path to the World Cup is well underway. Here’s when various regional confederations started their qualification:
– South America (CONMEBOL): Started September 2023
– Asia (AFC): Started October 2023
– Africa (CAF): Started November 2023
The CONCACAF region (North and Central America) will start its qualification process in March 2024. Oceania (OFC) will follow suit in September 2024, while UEFA (Europe) is set to begin its qualification path in March 2025. This structured timeline showcases the organized approach many countries are taking to secure their place in the tournament.
Original Source: www.nbcsports.com
