The qualification process for the 2026 World Cup is almost complete, with just six slots left to be decided.
England in October became the first European nation to confirm their spot, and were followed by Scotland in November. Fellow home nations Wales, Ireland and Northern Ireland face a March play-off to qualify.
The Three Lions have not missed a major tournament since 2008 and, along with the likes of Argentina, France and Spain, will be among the favourites to lift the trophy next summer at their eighth consecutive World Cup.
Meanwhile, Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan will be making their World Cup debuts.
Here’s everything you need to know about the World Cup draw…
When is the World Cup draw?
The draw for the expanded 2026 World Cup – the first to feature 48 teams – will take place in the US capital of Washington, D.C. on Friday, December 5. It will begin at 5pm GMT at the Kennedy Center.
How to watch the World Cup draw
Live stream: The draw will be broadcast live and for free on FIFA’s official YouTube channel.
Live blog: You can follow all the updates with Standard Sport’s live blog on the day.
Scotland have qualified for their first World Cup since France 1998
Getty Images
Who has qualified for the World Cup?
The USA, Canada, and Mexico all automatically qualify for the World Cup as hosts. Mexico play the opening game of the tournament in Mexico City, and will be placed in Group A. Canada then open their campaign in Toronto and will be in Group B, while the USA are in Group D.
England in October became the first European team to qualify, and were followed by 11 other automatic qualifiers by the time the November internationals were played – including Scotland securing their first World Cup spot since France 1998.
Wales face a March play-off
Action Images via Reuters
Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czech Republic, Denmark, Italy, Kosovo, Poland, Republic of Ireland, Slovakia, Turkey, Ukraine and Wales will be in the March play-offs after finishing as group runners-up.
They will be joined by the four best-ranked UEFA Nations League group winners that have not already qualified, who are Romania, Sweden, Northern Ireland and North Macedonia. Four spots will be up for grabs.
Bolivia, Iraq, Jamaica, New Caledonia, Suriname and DR Congo have qualified for the inter-confederation play-offs.
