Football's biggest festival is just a few days away. Billions of fans are waiting. The biggest World Cup in history is going to sit on the soil of Canada, Mexico and the United States. And before that death, the International Football Association gave birth to a new history by announcing the final team.
The final squads of 48 countries for the 2026 World Cup have been announced. In total, 1,248 footballers will participate in the World Cup this time, which is the highest in the history of the World Cup. This list was officially published by the International Football Association 9 days before the start of the tournament.
To be held for the first time with the participation of 48 countries, this World Cup has reached new heights not only in size but also in terms of diversity and global representation.
The squads announced have a remarkable blend of experience and youth. A total of 891 footballers will play in the World Cup for the first time. On the other hand, 357 players have tasted the World Cup before.
Three of the most talked about names in world football – Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo and Guillermo Ochoa – are back on the World Cup stage. They have a chance to make a unique feat. These three stars are going to play their sixth World Cup.
In terms of age, this year's World Cup will see a wonderful diversity.
Scotland goalkeeper Craig Gordon is the oldest player in this tournament at the age of 43. On the other hand, Mexico's Gilberto Mora became the youngest player at just 17 years old.
There are 22 players under the age of 20 in this World Cup. Again, the number of footballers over 40 years old is 7.
Apart from this, 22 footballers who won the previous World Cup will also enter the field this time, which will enrich the quality and experience of the competition.
Due to the expanded structure of the World Cup, a number of new countries have been given places for the first time. Cape Verde, Curaçao, Jordan and Uzbekistan will play in the main stage of the World Cup for the first time in history.
In particular, Uzbekistan's participation in the World Cup is a new chapter in the country's football history. The long-time dream of many footballers, including the young star Abdukodir Khusanov, has been fulfilled through this.
The global spread of world football is also reflected in this year's teams. Footballers from 449 different clubs from 71 countries will participate in the World Cup.
Countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia have largely relied on players from their domestic leagues. In contrast, Cabo Verde and Uruguay's entire teams are made up of footballers playing in foreign leagues.
Stadiums spread across Canada, Mexico and the United States are now waiting to witness the new history of football.
48 countries, 1,248 footballers, countless dreams and countless stories – all in all, the 2026 World Cup is not just a tournament, it is going to be the biggest gathering of world football. Where the last dance of legends, the rise of new stars and the emotional epics of millions will be seen on the same stage.
