The race to Fifa World Cup 2026: Who’s in, who’s close, who’s dreaming?

Thirty-nine nations will earn their ticket to the biggest show on earth — but who’s already booked their seat, and who’s still chasing the dream?

Already Qualified: The Early Birds

- Japan led the charge, sealing their spot with a 2-0 win over Bahrain on 20 March.

- New Zealand followed, clinching the OFC crown on 24 March.

- IR Iran and Argentina locked in on 25 March.

- Jordan and Uzbekistan made history on 5 June, qualifying for their first-ever World Cup.

- Korea Republic extended their streak to 11 consecutive appearances.

- Australia wrapped up the AFC third round on 10 June.

- Brazil kept their perfect record alive, joined by Ecuador.

South America: Three Giants on the Brink

With Brazil, Ecuador, and Argentina already through, three more Conmebol contenders are circling the finish line:

- Uruguay qualify if they avoid defeat to Peru — or if other results go their way.

- Paraguay need points v Ecuador and a little help from Argentina and Bolivia.

- Colombia can clinch with a win over Bolivia or a draw, depending on Venezuela’s result.

Venezuela currently hold the Play-Off spot, with Bolivia and Peru still in the mix. Chile? They’re out.

Africa: September Showdowns Loom

CAF qualifying heats up with nine direct spots on offer. Here’s who could seal the deal:

- Egypt: Win both games and they’re in. A draw could also do it — if other results align.

- South Africa: Beat Lesotho and Nigeria, and hope Rwanda and Benin slip.

- Cabo Verde: A historic debut awaits if they beat Mauritius and Cameroon — and results elsewhere go their way.

- Morocco: Four points from Niger and Zambia could be enough. Several other scenarios in play.

- Tunisia, Ghana, Ivory Coast, Algeria — all have clear paths, but margins are tight and stakes are sky-high.

Asia: Six Still Standing

With Australia through, the fourth round kicks off in October:

- Indonesia, Iraq, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE — split into two groups of three.

- Group winners qualify. Runners-up face off in a fifth-round playoff for a spot in the Fifa Play-Off Tournament.

North America, Central America & Caribbean

Concacaf’s final round runs from September to November. Expect fireworks as teams battle for limited spots.

Europe: Just Getting Started

Uefa qualifying only began in March. No tickets punched yet — but the race is on.

Oceania: One More Shot

New Caledonia fell to New Zealand in the OFC final — but they’re not done yet. A lifeline awaits in the Fifa Play-Off Tournament.