FIFA increases number of FIFA World Cup™ squads to 26 players
The Bureau of the FIFA Council, which consists of the FIFA President and the six confederation presidents, has decided to increase the number of players to be included on each squad’s final list to at least 23 players with a maximum of 26 players.
FIFA says the decision was made to retain additional flexibility due to the unique timing of the FIFA World Cup 2022™ in the global calendar. They also factor in the effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on squads before and during the tournaments.
Bureau of the FIFA Council’s issued decisions
- The maximum number of players on the release list has been increased from 35 to 55.
- The number of players to be included on the final list has been increased to at least 23 and a maximum of 26.
- The final matchday at the club level for the 23 to 26 players nominated on the final list will be 13 November 2022.
- No more than 26 people (up to 15 substitutes and 11 team officials – one of these officials must be the team doctor) will be allowed to sit on the team bench.
Aside from this, the Bureau has also decided to apply changes to the equipment regulations for the FIFA competitions.
The necessary changes were made following an in-depth review of the 2015 edition of the FIFA Equipment Regulations, which considered best practices in football and selected sports industry regulations, whilst also taking into account relevant provisions of the Laws of the Game and other FIFA regulations. The Bureau has decided to apply changes for the 2022 edition.
