Group draw status
The final group draw is not complete yet. WC Predictor is built to support the full 12-group layout and can update the bracket experience as final teams and placements are known.
Group-stage planning for your bracket
World Cup 2026 groups guide
Group-stage picks are the foundation of a good bracket. The expanded format gives you 12 groups to rank, plus third-place choices that shape the Round of 32.
12 groups to rank
Top two finishers advance
Third-place teams stay in play
Knockout picks depend on group outcomes
Predict all four positions
For each group, you predict first, second, third, and fourth place. Correct top-two picks matter, but third-place accuracy also feeds into the best third-place advancement step.
Groups set the knockout path
Knockout predictions are only as strong as the group-stage foundation underneath them. A bold group upset can open a path for a different semifinalist or champion pick.
Common questions
Are the 2026 groups final yet?
No. The final group draw is not complete yet, so any current group planning should be treated as format preparation until the draw is set.
How many groups are in the 2026 format?
There are 12 groups in the 2026 format, each with four teams.
Do third-place group picks matter?
Yes. Third-place picks matter because eight third-place teams advance to the knockout stage.