FIFA Announces Line-up For Expanded FIFA Series 2026

FIFA has officially announced the eagerly anticipated details for the FIFA Series 2026™, marking a groundbreaking expansion in international football.

This initiative will see 48 national teams from all six FIFA confederations competing, representing nearly a quarter of FIFA’s 211 Member Associations. Such an unprecedented move underscores FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity and diversity in the sport, promoting engagement from a vast array of nations.

The FIFA Series 2026 will unfold during the international match window in March and April, featuring 12 groups, each consisting of four teams. This expanded format allows for a more comprehensive representation of global football, with eleven FIFA Member Associations selected as hosts for the event. Notably, Rwanda will host two groups, affirming the rising prominence of African nations in the footballing world.

The men’s groups will see matches held in Australia, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, New Zealand, Puerto Rico, Rwanda, and Uzbekistan. The women’s groups will take place in Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire, and Thailand, further demonstrating FIFA’s dedication to elevating women’s football across the globe.

All matches will be broadcast globally, significantly enhancing visibility for participating national teams and providing fans worldwide with easier access to the games.

This initiative is not only about fostering competition but also about creating a platform for teams of varying skill levels. The men’s teams range from established powerhouses like Australia, currently ranked 26th, to emerging nations such as the US Virgin Islands, ranked 207th. Similarly, the women’s teams include Brazil, ranked 7th, and Turks and Caicos Islands, ranked 194th, showcasing FIFA’s commitment to meaningful international encounters.

Furthermore, the FIFA Series 2026 will serve as a preparatory platform for teams ahead of the FIFA World Cup 2026™, with five participating men’s national teams—Australia, Cabo Verde, Curaçao, New Zealand, and Uzbekistan—already qualified for the prestigious tournament. The Series aims to provide these teams with essential competitive experience and exposure.

Beyond competition, the FIFA Series 2026 will also support off-pitch development. Hosting Member Associations will gain valuable experience in event management, operational planning, and referee development, akin to conditions present in major international tournaments. This aligns perfectly with FIFA’s Strategic Objectives for the Global Game: 2023-2027, which focuses on promoting technical growth, organisational capabilities, and global exchanges without overburdening the international match calendar.

As excitement builds ahead of the FIFA Series 2026, fans and teams alike await the announcement of match schedules, poised for what promises to be an exhilarating celebration of football.