The 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification race is nearing its conclusion with 39 of 45 nations already secured for the expanded 48-team tournament. Japan became the first country to qualify on March 20, while hosts United States, Mexico and Canada automatically earned spots. The remaining positions will be filled through UEFA playoffs and intercontinental competitions in March.

Europe leads with 12 automatic qualifiers including England, France, Germany, Spain and defending champions Argentina's South American rivals. The UEFA playoffs feature 16 teams competing for four remaining European spots through single-leg semifinals and finals. Italy, Denmark, Sweden and Ukraine headline the playoff contenders, with semifinals scheduled for March 26 and finals on March 31. The intercontinental playoffs will award two final spots, with teams from six confederations competing in Mexico.

Africa has nine qualifiers set including Morocco, Senegal and Egypt, while Australia, Iran and Japan represent Asia. North America's three spots went to Panama, Curaçao and Haiti. The expanded format means more nations than ever will participate, with the tournament set to begin in June 2026 across three host countries.