FIFA 2026: “42 Teams Qualified, Only 6 Slots Left” — What Does This Mean?

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaching, 42 national teams have already secured their spots in the tournament, while the remaining six slots will be determined in next March’s playoffs.  This marks the first expansion in World Cup history - from 32 to 48 teams - a move that creates new opportunities for nations to compete on football’s grandest stage.

The Final 6 Slots: Why Act Now?

Although the last six slots remain undecided, delaying travel or booking decisions could mean missing out. Once the final qualifiers are confirmed in March, the market is likely to experience a surge in demand.

Past trends suggest that ticket prices may rise rapidly, and official hospitality packages will also become limited. Late planners may find themselves paying premium rates for less favorable seating or restricted viewing experiences.

A Critical Moment for Premium Travelers and Enterprises

For premium travelers and corporate planners, adopting a “wait-and-see” approach carries significant risks. Many companies are already locking in hotel rooms, flights, and event access across host cities to secure their place.

To ensure a high-quality World Cup experience, now is the time to finalize plans and secure bookings before availability tightens.