FIFA confirmed the change on Thursday, saying that final lineups for the Qatar 2022 World Cup can have up to 26 players.
FIFA said Thursday that final lineups for the Qatar 2022 World Cup can include up to 26 players, confirming a move that many had anticipated.
Nations are typically permitted a final team of 23 players for the competition. Because of the World Cup’s unique schedule and probable disruptions from COVID-19, that has been increased to a minimum of 23 and a maximum of 26 players this year.
FIFA.com states that in light of the need to maintain additional flexibility due to the FIFA World Cup 2022TM’s unique timing in the global calendar and the larger context of the disruptive effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic on teams 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 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.
In other words, due to Qatar’s high temperatures, the quadrennial competition will be held in November and December 2022, rather than the usual summer months. Positive results from COVID-19 tests performed prior to and during the competition may potentially have an impact on availability.
The penultimate club matchday for players chosen to a World Cup roster is November 13. The MLS Cup 2022 will be played on November 5, giving selected MLS players at least two weeks to prepare for the event, which begins on November 21.
