The 2026 World Cup uses a brand-new format. Here is exactly how the 48 teams, 12 groups and the new Round of 32 fit together — and how a team qualifies for the knockouts.
2026 is the first World Cup with 48 teams, split into 12 groups (A to L) of four, each playing a single round-robin.
| 2022 | 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Teams | 32 | 48 |
| Groups | 8 | 12 |
| Matches | 64 | 104 |
| First knockout | Round of 16 | Round of 32 |
The eight best third-placed teams across the 12 groups, ranked by points then goal difference, join the group winners and runners-up in the Round of 32.
12 groups of four teams each, Group A through Group L.