Why is Italy not included in the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw?

Italy are still one of the most important national teams in World Cup history. Having won four editions, they are the tournament’s second most successful team, level with Germany behind Brazil, who have five titles. Despite this, the Azzurri remain one of the most notable absentees from the 2026 FIFA World Cup drawwhich will take place today, Friday, December 5, at the John F. Kennedy Center in Washington, DC

With a total of 12 groups, The 2026 World Cup draw will feature 48 teams, representing the 42 national teams that have already qualified and the six places that will be decided in the play-offs. To this end, FIFA decided to organize four pots, with the first pot containing the host countries (USA, Mexico and Canada) and the nine highest ranked teams (Spain, Argentina, France, England, Brazil, Portugal, Netherlands, Belgium and Germany).

Although Italy are one of the most important national teams in World Cup history, they will not be present at the FIFA-organized draw. Despite this, the Azzurri are represented by the ‘European Playoff A’ slot. Their participation in the tournament has not yet been confirmedfor not finishing top of their group in the UEFA qualifiers. Then, they have to fight for their place in the play-offs.

The arrival of coach Gennaro Gattuso brought new hope to Italy, but they struggled to excel in the UEFA qualifiers. The Azzurri suffered two defeats and finished second in Group I, behind Norway. To secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup, they need to reach the play-offs by beating Northern Ireland and then compete against the winner of the Wales vs Bosnia and Herzegovina match.

Italy have struggled at the World Cup since winning the 2006 World Cup

After being crowned champion TDefeating France at the 2006 World Cup, Italy have struggled to maintain their dominance in the tournament. In the 2010 and 2014 editions they left the group stage. Instead of showing improvement, the Azzurri missed both the 2018 and 2022 editions completely. Then, coach Gattuso is at risk of missing his national team for the third time in a row if they fail to beat Northern Ireland in the play-offs.

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FIFA reveals procedures for 2026 World Cup final draw: format, team pots and when the schedule will be announced

The last time Italy qualified for a World Cup, Lionel Messi had won just four Ballon d’Or awards and Real Madrid had won nine Champions League titles. On 10 September 2013, after beating the Czech Republic 2–1, Italy secured their final spot in the tournament. Now the Azzurri have the chance to break a 13-year absence from the event. However, their current form does not inspire much confidence among fans.