FIFA allow teams to name a 26-member squad for the Qatar World Cup 2022

The FIFA World Cup 2022 has been scheduled at a later date than in previous years due to the hot weather conditions of Qatar. Instead of being held in June-August, it will be held between 21st November and 18th December 2022. This will be the first FIFA World Cup in the Arab World.

FIFA has now officially announced that the teams can now select 26 players instead of the previously allowed 23 players.

FIFA allow teams to name a 26-member squad for the Qatar World Cup 2022

The 26-member squad was also allowed by UEFA in the Euro 2020 last year due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

FIFA said in a statement: “The number of players to be included on the final list has been increased to at least 23 and a maximum of 26”.

Given the need to retain additional flexibility due to the unique timing of the FIFA World Cup 2022™ in the global calendar, as well as the broader context of the disruptive effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on squads before and during tournaments, the Bureau has decided the following:

• 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.

Read: FIFA World Cup 2022: One-night stand is not allowed in Qatar