when world cup 2026 qualifiers start

2 min read 14-03-2025

The excitement is building! The 2026 FIFA World Cup, a joint venture between the United States, Canada, and Mexico, promises to be a spectacular event. But before the main event kicks off, we have the crucial qualifying rounds. So, when do the 2026 World Cup qualifiers start? Let's dive in.

The 2026 World Cup Qualifying Process: A Timeline

Unfortunately, a precise start date for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers isn't yet officially announced by FIFA. However, based on past World Cup cycles and FIFA's general scheduling, we can make some educated predictions.

Predicted Start Date: Late 2023 or Early 2024

Most experts predict the qualifying matches will commence sometime between late 2023 and early 2024. This allows sufficient time for all the qualifying matches to be completed before the main tournament in 2026.

Factors Influencing the Start Date

Several factors influence the exact start date of the qualifiers:

FIFA's Official Schedule: FIFA will ultimately determine the precise dates. Their official announcement is the definitive source.
International Match Calendar: The international match calendar is jam-packed. Finding suitable dates that don't clash with other major tournaments or domestic leagues is crucial.
Continental Confederation Schedules: Each continental confederation (CONCACAF, UEFA, CAF, etc.) will have its own qualifying format and schedule. These need to be coordinated with FIFA's overall plan.

How the 2026 World Cup Qualifiers Will Work

The qualifying process will vary depending on your region.

CONCACAF (North, Central America, and Caribbean): This region, being a co-host, will likely have a more complex qualifying system than previous tournaments. The process might begin with preliminary rounds, eventually leading to a final group stage to determine the qualifiers.

Other Confederations: Other continental confederations (e.g., UEFA in Europe, CAF in Africa, AFC in Asia, CONMEBOL in South America, OFC in Oceania) will have their own specific qualifying procedures, all designed to narrow down the field to their allocated number of World Cup slots.

Where to Find Official Updates

The best place to find confirmed dates and details about the 2026 World Cup qualifiers is the official FIFA website. Keep an eye on their news section and announcements. Major sports news outlets will also be covering this closely.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: When will FIFA announce the official start date?

A: FIFA hasn't yet announced an official start date. Keep checking their website for updates.

Q: How many teams will qualify from each confederation?

A: The exact number of qualifying teams per confederation hasn't been finalized, but it's expected to reflect the expanded 48-team World Cup format.

Q: Will the qualifiers be televised?

A: Yes, the qualifiers will almost certainly be televised globally. Check your local listings for broadcast details closer to the start date.

Q: How can I follow the qualifiers?

A: Keep an eye on FIFA's official website and your region's football association websites.

Conclusion: Anticipation for 2026

The anticipation for the 2026 World Cup is palpable. While the exact start date for the qualifiers remains pending official confirmation from FIFA, we can expect the action to begin sometime between late 2023 and early 2024. Stay tuned for official announcements and get ready for an exciting journey towards the World Cup!