FIFA decision: 26 players in squad at World Cup in Qatar possible

Status: 06/23/2022 7:12 p.m

At the football World Cup in Qatar, the teams can fall back on a larger squad – 26 players instead of the previous 23 players are possible.

The Executive Committee of the FIFA Council approved increasing the squad to a maximum of 26 players for the World Cup from 21 November to 18 December in Qatar. This was announced by the World Football Association. National coach Hansi Flick had also spoken out in favor of a larger squad.

FIFA wants to “take account of the unusual date”

Instead of 35, up to 55 players can be put on the provisional nomination list. The final list now has a minimum of 23 players and a maximum of 26. The last matchday at club level for the 23-26 players included in the final World Cup list is 13 November – this Sunday the ends 15th Bundesliga matchday.

According to FIFA, these decisions take into account the unusual timing of the World Cup. In addition, because of the possible negative effects of the corona pandemic on the squad, they want to give the World Cup starters more leeway before and during the tournament.

Even at the European Championship, 26 players were possible

At the EM 2021, UEFA had already allowed 26 players per squad because of the pandemic. However, three players always had to sit in the stands. Because only since this summer have the rulers of the International Football Association Board (IFAB) allowed up to 15 instead of up to 12 players on the bench.

The rule change has no effect on the women’s European Championship this summer. UEFA left the squad sizes here at the usual 23 players.

FIFA President will be elected on March 16, 2023

FIFA also announced that the 73rd Congress will take place in Kigali/Rwanda on March 16, 2023 – with the election of the FIFA President. It was also announced that the U20 World Cup, which was canceled in 2021 due to Corona, is now to be held in Indonesia from May 20 to June 11, 2023.

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