World Cup 2026: What you need to know about final squad lists and their deadline

World Cup 2026 12 April 2026 at 05:20

Mohamed Rek

News Editor

The qualified teams for the 2026 FIFA World Cup are heading into the final stretch before the announcement of their squad lists. FIFA has now clarified the participation criteria as well as the official submission deadlines.

The tournament will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, in a historic edition that will feature 48 teams—up from 32 in previous tournaments.

26 players per squad and deadline set for final lists

According to the website "Btolat," quoting a source close to the matter, FIFA has approved a final list of 26 players per national team. The official deadline for submitting these lists is May 30.

Meanwhile, the Egyptian Football Association has received an official notification from FIFA as part of Egypt's preparations for the tournament. The Pharaohs will compete in Group G, alongside Belgium, Iran, and New Zealand.

As the deadline approaches, national team coaches are stepping up their deliberations to finalize their selections, with fierce competition among players all determined to secure a spot at the world’s most prestigious football event.

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