The FIFA World Cup 2026 will mark a historic milestone for global football with a record 13 Muslim-majority countries securing qualification for the tournament, reflecting the growing strength and wider international presence of football across the Muslim world.
The expanded World Cup, featuring 48 teams for the first time, has opened new opportunities for emerging football nations. The tournament, to be jointly hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, Senegal, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Jordan, Iraq, Iran, Uzbekistan, Türkiye, and Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The achievement represents years of investment in youth development, professional leagues, coaching, and football infrastructure across Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. Several of these countries have steadily improved their standing in international football through consistent performances in qualification campaigns.
Among the standout stories is Morocco, which captured global attention by reaching the semifinals of the FIFA World Cup in Qatar. The team’s remarkable run made history and established Morocco as one of the leading football nations outside the traditional powers. Football followers are expected to watch the North African side closely once again during the 2026 tournament.
Iraq has returned to the World Cup after a gap of four decades, Türkiye after a wait of 24 years, major comeback on football’s biggest stage.