2026 World Cup format: 48 teams explained
5 min read ·
The 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, is the first with 48 teams. The new format changes how teams qualify for the knockout stage. Here is the essential information to follow it.
Group stage: 12 groups of 4
The 48 teams are split into 12 groups of 4 teams. Each team plays three matches in the group stage. You can follow the standings live in our league table.
Who advances
The top two from each group qualify, plus the eight best third-placed teams, forming a 32-team bracket for the knockout stage. This adds an extra round (round of 32) compared with previous editions.
Knockout stage
From the round of 32 onwards, every match is single-elimination: whoever loses is out. If the score is level at the end, the match goes to extra time and, if still tied, to penalties.