The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be the largest edition of the tournament in history, featuring an expanded format of 48 teams split across 12 groups. With host nations the United States, Canada, and Mexico sharing duties, the stakes — and the drama — have never been higher.

England are among the sides who will be looking to navigate the group stage and mount a serious challenge for the trophy, while Scotland have also secured their place at the finals for one of their rare appearances on the world stage.

A record-breaking tournament

The expansion from 32 to 48 teams means the group stage now comprises 12 groups of four, with the top two from each group, plus eight best third-placed sides, advancing to a knockout round of 32. The format gives more nations a genuine chance of progression while raising the pressure on traditional powers to perform from the opening whistle.

England's group

England enter the tournament carrying the expectations of a nation that has not lifted the World Cup since 1966. Their group assignment will be central to how far the Three Lions can realistically travel in this edition, with fixture scheduling and opposition quality both playing a significant role in their preparation.

Scotland's campaign

Scotland's qualification is a landmark moment for Scottish football. Appearances at the World Cup have been rare in recent decades, and the Tartan Army will arrive in North America with ambitions of making the knockout rounds for the first time in their history.

African nations to watch

The 2026 tournament also features a stronger African presence than ever before, with CAF allocated nine spots in the expanded field. Nations including Morocco, Senegal, Nigeria, Egypt, and Cameroon are among those competing for continental glory and a deep run in the tournament. Morocco, finalists at the 2022 Africa Cup of Nations and 2022 World Cup semi-finalists, will be among the most watched sides on the planet.

Full group-by-group breakdowns, squad lists, fixture schedules, and match venue details are expected to be confirmed as the tournament draws closer in the summer of 2026.