CONCACAF Announces Final Round Schedule for 2026 World Cup Qualifiers

Final Round Set for Fall 2025

CONCACAF has officially unveiled the schedule for the final round of qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Taking place in Fall 2025, this stage will determine the remaining North American, Central American, and Caribbean nations that will qualify for the upcoming tournament jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Format and Structure of the Final Round

The final round will feature twelve teams competing for the region’s remaining World Cup berths. These teams will be split into three groups of four, with each group winner automatically qualifying for the World Cup. The runners-up from each group will advance to a secondary playoff round for a chance to participate in the intercontinental playoffs.

Key Features of the Format:

• Three groups of four teams
• Group stage matches played during September, October, and November 2025
• Group winners qualify directly to the 2026 World Cup
• Runners-up vie for one intercontinental playoff spot

Automatic Qualifiers and Remaining Spots

As hosts, USA, Canada, and Mexico have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. This leaves three direct slots and one potential intercontinental slot available for other CONCACAF nations through the qualification process.

Match Windows and Calendar

The qualification matches are set to be held over three FIFA international windows in:

• September 2025
• October 2025
• November 2025

This compact schedule ensures all decisive group stage fixtures will conclude by the end of 2025, giving teams clarity ahead of the main event in 2026.

What This Means for Regional Teams

This revision of the qualification format offers more competitive opportunities for Caribbean and Central American teams. A total of twelve teams will still have a realistic path to qualify late into the cycle, increasing regional competitiveness and exposure.

Looking Ahead

CONCACAF's streamlined scheduling of the final round for Fall 2025 not only aligns with official FIFA match windows but also builds excitement and structure in the region's road to the 2026 World Cup. Fans can look forward to a highly competitive qualification phase.