The upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 qualification process involves several stages, including European and intercontinental play-offs. The UEFA qualification has expanded to include 16 teams, with 12 qualifying automatically as group winners and four earning spots through play-offs. These play-offs involve 16 teams, including the 12 group runners-up and four teams selected based on their Nations League performance. The UEFA play-offs will be held in March 2026, with semi-finals on March 26 and finals on March 31. The draw for these semi-finals will take place on November 20, 2025, at 12 pm GMT, in Zurich, Switzerland, and will determine the matchups and home advantage. The four paths in the play-offs will feature one team from each of four pots, with seedings based on FIFA rankings and Nations League results. The intercontinental play-offs, also scheduled for March 2026, will feature six teams competing for the final two spots, with the draw also on November 20. The draw for the main World Cup 2026 tournament will occur on December 5, 2025, at 5 pm GMT in Washington D.C. The qualification process includes notable teams such as Ireland, Wales, and Northern Ireland, with some guaranteed semi-final home advantage. The process is complex, involving FIFA rankings, Nations League performance, and regional qualifiers, all contributing to the final lineup for the tournament.