Every nation competing at the 2026 FIFA World Cup must submit their final squad to FIFA no later than Monday, 1 June, with the global governing body officially confirming all squads the following day, Tuesday, 2 June.

Squads can contain between 23 and 26 players, with at least 3 of those spots reserved for goalkeepers. Nations such as England and Scotland have already named full 26-man squads, each including 3 goalkeepers.

When can squads be changed?

Once squads are confirmed, changes are only permitted under specific circumstances. Should a player suffer a serious injury or illness, a replacement can be made up until 24 hours before the team's opening match. After that window closes, no further changes to outfield players are allowed.

Goalkeepers are subject to a different rule. If a goalkeeper is struck down by serious injury or illness at any point during the tournament — even after the first match has been played — they may be replaced without restriction on timing.

These regulations are designed to balance squad stability with the practical reality that injuries can occur at any moment during a major tournament.