Overview
- The Nov. 20 draws will map the brackets that decide the last six qualifiers for the expanded 48-team tournament in 2026.
- UEFA’s pathway features 16 teams split into four brackets of single-game semifinals and finals for four World Cup places.
- European playoff entrants will be the 12 group runners-up plus four Nations League group winners, while the 12 group winners qualify directly after Nov. 18.
- Six non-European teams will contest two intercontinental berths, with Mexico expected to host and Bolivia and New Caledonia already in the field.
- All playoff matches are scheduled for March 26–31, and the World Cup draw on Dec. 5 at the Kennedy Center will include the six playoff placeholders, with President Donald Trump expected to attend.