Africa get 9 slots for expanded 2026 World Cup

The expanded 48-team World Cup approved by world football governing body FIFA on Tuesday will see Africa now getting nine slots, four more than they currently enjoy.

An initial stage of 16 groups of three teams will precede a knockout stage for the remaining 32 when the change is made for the 2026 tournament.

The sport’s world governing body voted unanimously in favour of the change at a meeting in Zurich on Tuesday.

In the expanded tournament, Europe will now have 16 teams, three more than what they have now, while South America will now get six automatic slots, upwards from the four automatic and one playoff places.

Asia have four extra spots with eight automatic and a playoff, while CONCACAF get six automatic and a playoff slots.

Oceania and host country will have a slot each.

Meanwhile, DFB president Reinhard Grindel had voiced his concerns over the proposal, while the influential European Club Association, which represents the interests of the major sides across the continent, opposed the changes.

English Football Association chief Martin Glenn also stated before the vote that he would prefer the smaller format to remain.