FIFA Sets Squad List Rules for the 2026 World Cup: From Extended Provisional Lists to Final Selection

FIFA has unveiled the official rules governing the squad lists of the national teams taking part in the 2026 World Cup, a move aimed at regulating the preparatory phase ahead of the eagerly awaited global showpiece.

The body that governs world football confirmed that national teams are required to submit provisional lists of between 35 and 55 players, which must later be cut down to a final squad of between 23 and 26 players, with three goalkeepers having to be included in the official list.

FIFA has also set 2 June 2026 as the deadline for submitting the final squad lists, the date on which the names of the players who will represent their national teams at the world's biggest football event will be officially confirmed.

These measures are part of FIFA's commitment to ensuring a level playing field between the national teams and to giving coaches enough room to select the best players, particularly in light of the physical and competitive demands of the tournament.

The coming period is expected to see fierce competition among players within the various national teams as they seek to secure a place in the final squads and ultimately represent their countries at this major global event.