FIFA confirms squad submission deadlines for 2026 World Cup

FIFA has officially confirmed the key deadlines for submitting player lists ahead of the 2026 World Cup, setting out a strict timetable for participating nations.

The governing body has informed the 48 qualified teams that they must submit their provisional squads, known as extended lists, by 13 May 2026.

These lists can include between 35 and 55 players and will form the initial pool from which final selections are made.

Once the extended lists are submitted, no additional players can be added, making the deadline a crucial step in each nation’s preparation.

Coaches will be required to make early decisions on their wider squads as they begin final planning for the tournament.

FIFA has also outlined the timeline for player release, stating that clubs must make all selected players available to their national teams by 25 May 2026.

This requirement ensures that squads have sufficient time to prepare together ahead of the competition.

The final squad lists, which will determine the players eligible to compete at the tournament, must be submitted by 1 June 2026. Each national team will be allowed to register between 23 and 26 players for the competition.

These deadlines provide a clear framework for all participating federations as they organise their preparations for the expanded tournament, which will feature 48 teams for the first time in World Cup history.

The scheduling also reflects the need for coordination between clubs and national teams, particularly as the tournament approaches.

With players expected to join their respective squads shortly after the domestic season concludes, the timing of submissions and releases will play a key role in shaping preparations.

For coaches, the process now enters a decisive phase, with the selection of extended squads marking the beginning of final assessments.

The narrowing down to the final list will follow shortly after, as teams aim to arrive at the tournament with their strongest possible squads.

As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, these deadlines establish the structure that will guide national teams through the final stages of preparation.