FIFA World Cup Schedule: Fifa World Cup Qualifiers 2026 Schedule

The FIFA World Cup Schedule is a focal point for football fans worldwide, driven by the tournament's prestige, rich history, and the intense national pride it fosters among participating countries. The World Cup is the pinnacle of football competition, captivating billions globally and generating immense excitement. The 2026 tournament approaches and anticipation of the matches and betting opportunities increase, especially with online sportsbooks such as UFABET offering diverse options.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule features significant changes compared to previous editions. The tournament expands from 32 to 48 teams, enhancing the competitive landscape and leading to a more dynamic qualification process. The new structure commenced with the FIFA World Cup qualifiers in October 2023 and continued through March 2026. UEFA has 16 direct slots, a significant increase from the 13 slots in past tournaments. Each of the six confederations secures at least one guaranteed spot for the first time, culminating in an intercontinental playoff to determine the final two participants.

Canada and Mexico jointly host the next FIFA World Cup, and the United States is going to host it in 2026, marking a historic event since it is going to be the first time the tournament takes place in three different countries. The collaborative effort aims to showcase North America's diversity and passion for football, promising an exciting atmosphere for players and fans. The WC match schedule reflects the unique characteristics of each host country, contributing to the tournament's overall appeal.

Qualification for the World Cup involves multiple stages, with teams vying for spots within their respective confederations. The excitement builds as the top teams secure automatic qualification or advance to the intercontinental playoffs. The system heightens national pride and competitiveness, making each FIFA World Cup match a thrilling spectacle leading up to the main event.

The FIFA World Cup enhances viewing experiences and transforms matches into exciting, suspenseful events. The massive global interest in the World Cup provides an excellent opportunity for sports betting. Betting amplifies personal investment in match outcomes, creating a more engaging experience. Platforms like UFABET offer competitive odds and a user-friendly interface, making it accessible for novice and experienced bettors. UFABET's secure payment options and dedicated customer support make it a perfect choice for football fans eager to take advantage of the FIFA World Cup games.

The World Cup match schedule is not merely about the matches; it represents a global celebration of football, camaraderie, and competition. The anticipation of FIFA World Cup matches and the betting opportunities add an exciting layer to the significant event as fans prepare for the upcoming World Cup matches.

FIFA World Cup Schedule and Fixtures - 2025/2026 Season

By Month

What FIFA World Cup Games will happen this week?

There are no scheduled matches this week. Please stay tuned for fixtures in the upcoming week. In the meantime, you can check the latest results from last week below.

How to Bet on FIFA World Cup Game on UFABET?

To bet on the FIFA World Cup Game on UFABET, follow the five steps listed below.

Register or Log In: Create a new account or log into the existing one on UFABET. Registering is straightforward and requires basic information like name, contact information, and a username and password. A verification process is required, involving the submission of valid identification documents. Access to the account is granted once registration is confirmed.
Deposit Funds: Fund the account after logging in. UFABET accepts multiple currencies, such as USD and THB, and supports various payment methods, such as bank transfers and e-wallets (True Money). Choose a convenient option to ensure smooth transactions. The FIFA World Cup Betting process is ready to begin once the account is funded.
Choose a Match from the Schedule List: Select a match from the FIFA World Cup schedule once the account is funded. Researching teams is essential before placing a bet. Knowing key information like team form, injuries, and past head-to-head performance helps make informed decisions. Proper research increases the chances of a successful outcome.
Select a Betting Market: Bet on a market that aligns with the strategy after identifying a suitable match. UFABET offers betting markets for FIFA World Cup matches, including predicting the Match Result, betting on Over or Under Goals, and selecting Both Teams to Score (BTTS). Another option is Handicap Betting, which gives one team a virtual advantage to level the playing field. Each market has unique odds, so evaluating them before making a final decision is important.
Place Your Bet: Placing the bet is the final step after selecting the market. Responsible betting is essential, so set a budget and stay within the financial limits. Understanding the odds is crucial, as they determine potential payouts. Reviewing team statistics and player conditions further enhances the chances of success.

To bet on the FIFA World Cup Game on UFABET, follow the five steps listed below.

Register or Log In: Create a new account or log into the existing one on UFABET. Registering is straightforward and requires basic information like name, contact information, and a username and password. A verification process is required, involving the submission of valid identification documents. Access to the account is granted once registration is confirmed.
Deposit Funds: Fund the account after logging in. UFABET accepts multiple currencies, such as USD and THB, and supports various payment methods, such as bank transfers and e-wallets (True Money). Choose a convenient option to ensure smooth transactions. The FIFA World Cup Betting process is ready to begin once the account is funded.
Choose a Match from the Schedule List: Select a match from the FIFA World Cup schedule once the account is funded. Researching teams is essential before placing a bet. Knowing key information like team form, injuries, and past head-to-head performance helps make informed decisions. Proper research increases the chances of a successful outcome.
Select a Betting Market: Bet on a market that aligns with the strategy after identifying a suitable match. UFABET offers betting markets for FIFA World Cup matches, including predicting the Match Result, betting on Over or Under Goals, and selecting Both Teams to Score (BTTS). Another option is Handicap Betting, which gives one team a virtual advantage to level the playing field. Each market has unique odds, so evaluating them before making a final decision is important.
Place Your Bet: Placing the bet is the final step after selecting the market. Responsible betting is essential, so set a budget and stay within the financial limits. Understanding the odds is crucial, as they determine potential payouts. Reviewing team statistics and player conditions further enhances the chances of success.

What are the most Anticipated FIFA World Cup Games this Season?

The most anticipated FIFA World Cup games this season include Brazil vs. Argentina, where the two football giants clash, drawing global attention with intense rivalry. England vs. Germany brings historical tension, while Spain vs. Portugal features elite talent from neighboring nations, making these FIFA World Cup matches highly anticipated.

Senegal, Nigeria, Japan, and South Korea are among the teams competing for World Cup spots in Africa and Asia. These matches often deliver high stakes and thrilling underdog stories, influencing the FIFA World Cup schedule.

Italy seeks redemption after missing two consecutive tournaments, with every match critical for reclaiming its status. Germany, after disappointing early exits, aims to reassert dominance in the group stage, making their performances a must-watch.

Host nation matches, especially matches involving the USA, Mexico, and Canada, are highly anticipated, with the USA’s rising football profile adding excitement. Intercontinental Playoffs bring drama as teams from different regions battle for the final World Cup spots.

Group stage matchups between unfamiliar teams are added to the unpredictability with the expanded 48-team format. These additional FIFA World Cup matches offer opportunities for surprise performances, making the tournament even more exciting.

How are the FIFA World Cup Schedule and Fixtures determined?

The FIFA World Cup schedule and fixtures are determined by FIFA through an official draw ceremony and seeding system. The schedule is the dates and times of matches, while fixtures are the specific matchups between teams, including who plays whom and at which stage. These elements are planned well in advance to ensure smooth organization. FIFA balances groups using rankings and geographic considerations, determining which teams meet in the group stage and how the knockout rounds are structured leading up to the World Cup final date.

The group stage follows a round-robin format, where each team plays the others in its group once. The 48 teams are divided into 12 groups of four for the 2026 tournament, with the two best teams progressing to the knockout stages. Knockout rounds follow a single-elimination format, with teams playing crucial matches through Round of 32, Round of 16, quarterfinals, and the finale.

Fixtures for the FIFA World Cup qualifiers 2026 schedule vary by region, with each confederation (like UEFA, CONMEBOL, AFC, and CAF) organizing its qualification process. UEFA teams compete in home-and-away group matches, with winners qualifying directly and second-placed teams entering playoffs. CONMEBOL uses a league format where teams play each other twice, home and away, with top teams qualifying automatically. The lower-ranked teams in Africa and Asia start in earlier knockout stages, followed by group phases, with the winners progressing to the final rounds.

FIFA ensures that qualifiers and tournament matches fit within international match windows to avoid conflicts with club football. These windows, spread across years, allow teams to complete fixtures without overlap. The expanded 2026 World Cup format brings more group-stage games, bringing new and unexpected matchups and making the competition even more competitive.

What Factors does the Organization consider when doing the FIFA World Cup Fixtures?

The factors the organization considers when doing the FIFA World Cup fixtures are listed below.

Team Availability: Teams must be available during tournament windows, coordinated with FIFA's calendar. It ensures that players are released from clubs for international duty and that no major matches conflict with the World Cup.
Stadium Availability: Host cities must ensure that stadiums are ready and meet FIFA standards. The availability of venues is crucial for planning, as multiple games are held at a single stadium, necessitating time for preparation and security measures.
TV Broadcasting Schedules: Match timings are scheduled around important regions, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas, to optimize worldwide audience. Coordination with broadcasters ensures optimal viewing times.
International Competitions: FIFA avoids scheduling the World Cup during other major tournaments or domestic leagues, ensuring that qualification windows and the tournament do not clash with events like Copa América or UEFA Euro.
Local Derbies and High-Profile Matches: Games between rival teams are strategically scheduled to address security and fan interest. These matches are often given prime slots to enhance viewership and atmosphere.
Travel Logistics: Organizers consider the distance between venues to minimize travel fatigue. It is essential in tournaments spread across large or multiple countries, like the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Player Rest Periods: Adequate rest between matches is essential for player performance. Teams receive at least 3 to 4 days between fixtures, especially during knockout rounds when fitness is critical.
Weather Conditions: Climate significantly impacts the FIFA World Cup Schedule. FIFA considers weather patterns and schedules matches in cooler parts of the day in hot climates, similar to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which was held in winter.
Fan Attendance Considerations: Maximizing fan attendance is vital for the tournament's success. Matches are scheduled to attract local and international fans, with populous host cities often receiving more high-profile games.
Security Requirements: The safety of players, officials, and fans is paramount. Security plans around high-risk matches influence their timing and location, with host nations collaborating with security forces for crowd management.
Sponsorship and Commercial Agreements: Sponsorship commitments affect fixture planning, as FIFA’s sponsors have preferences regarding match visibility. The timing of high-profile games is influenced by enhancing brand exposure.

The factors the organization considers when doing the FIFA World Cup fixtures are listed below.

Team Availability: Teams must be available during tournament windows, coordinated with FIFA's calendar. It ensures that players are released from clubs for international duty and that no major matches conflict with the World Cup.
Stadium Availability: Host cities must ensure that stadiums are ready and meet FIFA standards. The availability of venues is crucial for planning, as multiple games are held at a single stadium, necessitating time for preparation and security measures.
TV Broadcasting Schedules: Match timings are scheduled around important regions, including Europe, Asia, and the Americas, to optimize worldwide audience. Coordination with broadcasters ensures optimal viewing times.
International Competitions: FIFA avoids scheduling the World Cup during other major tournaments or domestic leagues, ensuring that qualification windows and the tournament do not clash with events like Copa América or UEFA Euro.
Local Derbies and High-Profile Matches: Games between rival teams are strategically scheduled to address security and fan interest. These matches are often given prime slots to enhance viewership and atmosphere.
Travel Logistics: Organizers consider the distance between venues to minimize travel fatigue. It is essential in tournaments spread across large or multiple countries, like the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
Player Rest Periods: Adequate rest between matches is essential for player performance. Teams receive at least 3 to 4 days between fixtures, especially during knockout rounds when fitness is critical.
Weather Conditions: Climate significantly impacts the FIFA World Cup Schedule. FIFA considers weather patterns and schedules matches in cooler parts of the day in hot climates, similar to the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, which was held in winter.
Fan Attendance Considerations: Maximizing fan attendance is vital for the tournament's success. Matches are scheduled to attract local and international fans, with populous host cities often receiving more high-profile games.
Security Requirements: The safety of players, officials, and fans is paramount. Security plans around high-risk matches influence their timing and location, with host nations collaborating with security forces for crowd management.
Sponsorship and Commercial Agreements: Sponsorship commitments affect fixture planning, as FIFA’s sponsors have preferences regarding match visibility. The timing of high-profile games is influenced by enhancing brand exposure.

Is there a possibility of Postponing FIFA World Cup Games?

Yes, there is a possibility of postponing FIFA World Cup games, although such instances are quite rare. FIFA, the tournament's governing body, has established protocols to deal with unforeseen circumstances that force postponements. Matches are rescheduled under exceptional conditions, as FIFA aims to keep the tournament on its tight schedule. Postponements occur due to severe events that impact the safety of players, officials, and fans or affect the operational capabilities of the tournament.

Possible reasons for postponement are listed below.

Extreme Weather Conditions: Severe weather, such as heavy rain, storms, or extreme heat, render the venue unsafe or create logistical challenges.
Natural Disasters: Events like earthquakes, floods, or other catastrophes near host cities necessitate delays for safety and logistical reasons.
Security Concerns: Major security threats, including terrorist threats or civil unrest, lead to the rescheduling of matches.
Public Health Emergencies: Situations like pandemics, similar to COVID-19, result in the postponement of games.
Technical or Operational Issues: Failures in stadium infrastructure, such as power outages or pitch problems (e.g., waterlogged fields), require delays or rescheduling.

Postponing FIFA World Cup games, while uncommon, is managed through a well-defined process to ensure the tournament's continuity. The FIFA Organizing Committee holds the authority to make decisions regarding postponements. FIFA and local authorities work with the local organizing body to decide whether a match must be rescheduled or delayed in an urgent situation. The decision involves consultations with relevant stakeholders, including teams, venue officials, and experts in security or weather, depending on the situation.

FIFA promptly informs all relevant parties, including teams, match officials, broadcasters, sponsors, and fans, of the postponement decision through official channels such as websites, apps, and social media. The organization strives to reschedule the match quickly within the tournament's tight schedule, ensuring that the new date and time align with venue availability and do not conflict with other matches. FIFA manages any necessary logistical adjustments for teams and officials while maintaining the tournament's integrity. It includes ensuring equal rest periods for teams and adjusting subsequent fixtures if delays are significant so that no team is unfairly disadvantaged.

Extreme Weather Conditions: Severe weather, such as heavy rain, storms, or extreme heat, render the venue unsafe or create logistical challenges.
Natural Disasters: Events like earthquakes, floods, or other catastrophes near host cities necessitate delays for safety and logistical reasons.
Security Concerns: Major security threats, including terrorist threats or civil unrest, lead to the rescheduling of matches.
Public Health Emergencies: Situations like pandemics, similar to COVID-19, result in the postponement of games.
Technical or Operational Issues: Failures in stadium infrastructure, such as power outages or pitch problems (e.g., waterlogged fields), require delays or rescheduling.