The FIFA World Cup 2026 Simulator is an interactive tool that lets you simulate the entire knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Predict match outcomes, create your dream bracket, and see who becomes World Champion!
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the first to feature 48 teams, hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This expanded format introduces a new knockout structure with 32 teams advancing from the group stage.
The tournament features 48 nations divided into 12 groups of 4 teams each. The top 2 teams from each group automatically qualify for the Round of 32, along with the 8 best third-placed teams.
Start by ranking the 4 teams in each of the 12 groups (A through L). Simply drag and drop teams to set their final positions:
After ranking groups, you must select exactly 8 of the 12 third-placed teams to advance to the knockout stage. This simulates the "best third-placed teams" qualification rule.
Here's where it gets interesting! Depending on which 8 groups' third-placed teams qualify, FIFA uses a complex mapping table to determine their Round of 32 opponents.
There are exactly 495 possible combinations of 8 groups from 12 (mathematically: C(12,8) = 495). Each combination has a specific mapping that determines which first-placed team each third-placed team will face.
For example, if groups A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H third-placed teams qualify, they face specific 1st-placed teams. But if groups A, C, E, G, I, J, K, L qualify instead, the matchups are completely different!
Progress through each knockout round by selecting match winners:
Once you've completed your simulation, download a shareable bracket image showing all your predictions from Round of 32 to the Final!