These are the groups for the 2026 World Cup

This is how the groups of the 2026 World Cup: all the rivals and what you need to know

The 2026 World Cup draw has set the 12 groups that will make up the first stage of the tournament. With 48 national teams taking part for the first time in history, anticipation and excitement are growing among fans around the world.

A historic format: 48 national teams and 12 groups

This edition will be a turning point: for the first time the tournament will have 48 teams split into 12 groups of 4 national teams each. The top two in each group go straight to the round of 32, along with the eight best third-placed teams — which guarantees excitement until the very end of the group stage.

Seeding and host nations

The host countries — the United States, Mexico and Canada — were automatically placed as seeds, guaranteeing their spots in Groups A, B and D. Alongside them, the top-ranked national teams also made up Pot 1, leaving attractive match-ups and a balance of power for the draw.

Confirmed groups (some still with spots to be decided)

Here is a summary of the first groups confirmed after the draw:

• Group A: Mexico, South Africa, Korea Republic, Czechia (won UEFA play-off D)
• Group B: Canada, Bosnia and Herzegovina (won UEFA play-off A), Qatar, Switzerland
• Group C: Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Scotland
• Group D: United States, Paraguay, Australia, Türkiye (won UEFA play-off C)
• Group E: Germany, Curaçao, Ivory Coast, Ecuador

What this World Cup means for the fans

With an expanded format, more national teams and a structure that allows historic rematches and surprises, the 2026 World Cup promises to be the most diverse and unpredictable in history. For fans, every group represents hope: from established powerhouses to emerging national teams hungry for glory. On top of that, the large number of teams invites us to dream of surprises — risks, bets, new icons and, above all, football full of passion and pride.

What's next? Expectations and emotions to come

Although we already know several groups, some spots will still be decided through the play-offs: the six remaining tickets will be handed out in the coming months. Until then, national teams around the world are fine-tuning their preseason, strengthening their squads and dreaming of writing their history in the United States, Mexico and Canada. The 2026 World Cup arrives full of hope. For the fans — and for those of us who love living football — it will be a roller coaster of emotions, national pride and unforgettable moments.