2026 World Cup European Play-Offs: Pathways to Qualification

European nations are gearing up for the play-offs to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup. The draw will include 12 teams that finished second in their qualifying groups and the top four Nations League group winners who missed out on direct qualification. Only four European spots are available, with teams facing two knockout matches to earn their place in the tournament. Additionally, six non-European teams will compete in a separate play-off tournament to secure the final two World Cup spots.

The draw will feature 16 teams divided into four pots. The group runners-up will be placed in the top three pots based on their FIFA rankings, while the Nations League group winners will be in pot four. Each pot will contribute one team to four separate paths: Path A, Path B, Path C, and Path D. The teams in each path will compete in one-legged semi-finals, with the winners advancing to the final to determine the World Cup qualifiers.

The play-off matches are scheduled to take place during the international break in March 2026. The semi-finals are set for March 26, with the finals occurring five days later. Hosts for the semi-final and final matches must confirm their venues by December 19, 2025. In case of losing semi-finalists, friendly matches will be arranged on the day of the path finals. The European play-off draw will be live-streamed on the BBC Sport website and app on November 20, 2025, at 12:00 GMT.

Fans can follow the draw live on BBC Sport's website and app, as well as listen to it on BBC Radio 5 Live and BBC Sounds. The coverage will provide insights and updates on the play-off process, ensuring fans are informed about the latest developments. Stay tuned for more information on the play-offs and the road to the 2026 World Cup.