These major nations will miss the 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

Big footballing powers who will miss out on the 2026 World Cup

These major nations will miss the 2026 World Cup

As the United States, Canada, and Mexico gear up to host an expanded World Cup from June 11 to July 19, 2026, the stage is gradually being set. Forty-two nations have already secured their tickets, including defending champions Argentina, France, Spain, Belgium, and the Netherlands. The final six spots will be decided in March during the playoffs, the last step before the full line-up for this unprecedented tournament is revealed.

But while the qualified teams bask in the spotlight, the list of absentees is already making headlines. Some nations, impressive in recent years, have already been knocked out. That’s the case for Georgia, who thrilled fans at Euro 2024 but fell short in a group dominated by Spain and Turkey, leaving Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, Georges Mikautadze, and Giorgi Mamardashvili at home. Ironically, this absence could be a relief for some European clubs—especially in Paris, where they’re happy to get Kvara back early.

Continental heavyweights already eliminated, others on the brink

The story is just as harsh for Slovenia, who finished third in their group and will not see Jan Oblak or Benjamin Sesko in the United States. Hungary and Serbia share that disappointment, missing out on the World Cup despite boasting top talents like Szoboszlai, Kerkez, and Vlahovic.

In Africa, the verdict is even more brutal. Nigeria, led by Victor Osimhen and Ademola Lookman, were ousted by DR Congo in a penalty shootout. Cameroon are also out, as are Gabon, Central African Republic, and Guinea—leaving big names on the sidelines: André Onana, Bryan Mbeumo, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, Serhou Guirassy...

And the list could grow even longer. The playoffs still loom over global stars like Gianluigi Donnarumma, Robert Lewandowski, Arda Güler, Alexander Isak, Viktor Gyökeres, and Milan Skriniar.

One thing is certain: the 2026 World Cup will go on without several giants—and more could fall soon.