Overview
- Six remaining berths will be decided in March 26–31, 2026 playoffs, with European paths and intercontinental slots determined by the Zurich draw.
- Europe will field 16 teams in four single‑leg brackets for four World Cup places, while six non‑European teams will compete for two intercontinental spots that AP reports are expected to be hosted by Mexico.
- Hosts United States, Mexico and Canada are in Pot 1 and have been assigned to Groups D, A and B respectively under FIFA’s draw procedures.
- The expanded tournament will feature 48 teams in 12 groups of four, with the top two in each group plus the eight best third‑placed teams advancing to the knockouts.
- FIFA will stream the December 5 draw on FIFA+, rights‑holding broadcasters will carry it nationally, and host‑city preparations include FIFA’s verification of Torreón’s TSM as a Team Base Camp with visits reported by Portugal and the Netherlands.