FIFA World Cup 2026 Groups: Everything You Need to Know
The 2026 World Cup is going to be massive. For the first time ever, 48 countries will take part in the tournament. That means more teams, more matches, and more moments to enjoy. But with the new format, there are a few changes to how the group stage works. Here’s a simple breakdown of what you need to know.
When Will the 2026 World Cup Groups Be Announced?
FIFA hasn’t given an exact date yet. But based on how things usually go, the group draw will likely take place in late 2025, probably around December. Most of the qualifying matches will be done by then, so that’s when we’ll find out who’s playing who.
How Many Groups Will There Be in the 2026 World Cup?
There will be 12 groups, and each group will have 4 teams. That’s a big jump from the usual 8 groups we’ve seen in past World Cups. With 48 teams in total, the group stage will look and feel a lot different this time.
FIFA World Cup 2026 Group Table and Full List
| Group | Teams |
|---|---|
| A | Mexico |
| B | Canada |
| C | |
| D | USA |
| E | |
| F | |
| G | |
| H | |
| I | |
| J | |
| K | |
| L |
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What’s New About the Groups in 2026?
The most obvious change is the number of teams. With 48 nations involved, it’s the biggest World Cup yet. Smaller countries now have a better shot at making it to the tournament, which is great for global football.
Also, more teams will move on after the group stage. Instead of just the top two from each group, we’ll now have:
- The top 2 teams from each group, and
- The 8 best third-place teams
That gives us 32 teams heading into the knockout stage. More teams, more chances, more football.
| Format | World Cup 2022 | World Cup 2026 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Teams | 32 | 48 |
| Number of Groups | 8 | 12 |
| Teams per Group | 4 | 4 |
| Group Stage Matches | 48 | 72 |
| Teams Advancing | 16 | 32 |
How Many Games Will Be Played in the Group Stage?
Each team plays three matches in the group stage. That’s how it’s always been. With 12 groups, and 6 matches per group, the total comes to 72 group stage matches.
So yeah, get ready for a packed schedule.
What Is the Round of 32?
This is a new round added to fit the bigger tournament format. Once the group stage ends, 32 teams will move forward. That includes the top two teams in every group and the eight best third-place teams.
From there, it’s a classic knockout format. Win and move on. Lose and go home. The Round of 32 is followed by the Round of 16, then the quarterfinals, semifinals, and the final.
The 2026 World Cup is going to be wild – in a good way. With more teams, more groups, and a brand-new format, it’s a whole new chapter in World Cup history.
Whether your country is competing or you’re just in it for the love of the game, there’ll be plenty to cheer for. The group stage will be full of surprises, and the road to the final will be longer but more thrilling than ever.