The 2026 FIFA World Cup draw will follow a structured system designed to organize 48 teams into 12 groups. Seeding, ranking, and tournament logistics are already shaping how the groups are formed long before the first match.

Behind the scenes, FIFA applies detailed rules to manage balance and competition. Geographic considerations, ranking-based pots and other constraints quietly influence how teams are assigned to each group.

While the draw may appear random on TV, these mechanisms set limits and patterns that determine potential matchups. What unfolds during the group stage is influenced as much by structure as by chance.

What are the draw rules for confederations at the 2026 World Cup?

For 2026, the draw will use four “pots” to distribute the 48 qualified teams — hosts plus top‑rank

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