The 2026 World Cup lineup is now complete. After a dramatic final round of international and European playoffs, all 48 teams are officially set, with Sweden, Türkiye, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Czechia, the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Iraq claiming the last six spots.

With no routes left open, attention shifts just as much to those who failed as those who made it. And even with an expanded format, several major names – and some of the game’s biggest stars – will not be part of the tournament in Mexico, the United States and Canada.

Italy headline a stunning list of absentees

The most shocking omission is Italy.

After missing both the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, the four-time champions once again fell short in the playoff stage. Pressure and expectation were clear, but they were unable to secure one of the final qualifying places.

That confirms a remarkable and troubling run: Italy will miss a third consecutive World Cup, the only former champions to have done so.

Europe’s misser-outers

Italy are not alone.

Europe’s depth once again proved ruthless, with several competitive sides eliminated in tightly contested playoff ties. Among those missing out are Hungary, Slovenia and Georgia, all of whom had realistic hopes of qualification.

The consequence is a tournament without players such as Jan Oblak, Dominik Szoboszlai and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia. Elite individual talent is no guarantee of reaching the World Cup.

Also missing out were Wales, Northern Ireland, Denmark, Poland, Romania, Republic of Ireland and Kosovo.

Africa loses major contenders

In Africa, two of the continent’s most prominent national teams will also be absent: Cameroon and Nigeria.

Both were eliminated by the Democratic Republic of the Congo, which not only removed two heavyweights but went on to secure qualification itself. Nigeria’s exit, in particular, means that Victor Osimhen will not feature at the tournament.

Familiar disappointments in the Americas

Across the Americas, the absentees reflect longer-term struggles.

Chile and Peru continue to miss out as they navigate generational transitions, while Costa Rica – a consistent presence in recent editions – also failed to qualify this time.

Even with more places available, maintaining competitiveness at this level has proven difficult for several traditionally strong sides.

The full picture is set, without some of the game’s biggest names

With all 12 groups confirmed, the 2026 World Cup is ready. There will be plenty of fresh narratives to define the tournament, one expected to be like no other.

But the list of those left behind is striking.

From Italy’s historic absence to Africa’s fallen giants and Europe’s deep pool of contenders, this World Cup will unfold without many of the names fans have come to expect, a reminder that expansion increases opportunity, but there are no guarantees.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all.

Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.