NBC Universal, Inc.

The 2026 World Cup is going to be as stacked as ever.

For the first time in the tournament's lengthy history, there will be 48 nations competing for soccer's most treasured prize -- an uptick from the previous 32-team field.

Stream Philadelphia News for free, 24/7, wherever you are with NBC10. WATCH HERE

The summer of 2026 is still a ways away, but the number of qualified nations has already hit double digits, including the hosts.

The United States , Mexico and Canada all earned automatic qualifications due to their co-hosting agreement, so CONCACAF qualifying has gotten easier for the rest of the countries.

Get top local Philly stories delivered to you every morning with NBC Philadelphia's News Headlines newsletter. SIGN UP

So, who else has joined

See Full Page