Forty-eight nations will compete in the newly-expanded format in the U.S., Mexico and Canada, attempting to etch their name into the history books and join the pantheon of greats to have lifted the golden trophy aloft. Many have already qualified for the tournament but only a handful of countries harbor genuine hopes of world domination.

Get the latest 2026 FIFA World Cup odds, favorites to win, and betting analysis from top sportsbooks. Track line movement, group odds, top scorer prices, and more.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching next summer — but first, the ceremonial pomp of the World Cup draw, still to be held this winter.

Here are the best players who won’t feature at the 2026 World Cup. Hungary have been plucky opponents under Italian manager Marco Rossi, and they looked set to at least earn a playoff berth in UEFA’s qualifying process heading into the November break.

Spain’s dominant win in Tbilisi, a 4-0 performance that all but confirmed the national team’s ticket to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, has already pushed conversation toward next summer. With only an implausible scenario against Turkey in Sevilla able to derail qualification,

The Manchester City striker hits 16 goals in an astonishing qualifying campaignErling Haaland scores 16 goals to send Norway to 2026 World Cup — full UEFA top scorers listErling Haaland has

Here’s a full breakdown of the 2026 World Cup group stage draw. The World Cup draw will take place at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC on Friday, Dec. 5 at 12 p.m. ET (9 a.m. PT, 5 p.m. GMT).