New york: The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to make history with a record 1,248 players from 48 teams confirmed to participate in the tournament, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. This marks an unprecedented expansion in the number of teams and players involved, as confirmed by the world football authority, FIFA.

According to Anadolu Agency, the tournament will see a total of 357 players returning, having previously been part of a World Cup squad, while 891 players will make their World Cup debuts. The tournament also highlights a significant age gap, featuring Scotland's 43-year-old Craig Gordon as the oldest participant and Mexico's 17-year-old Gilberto Mora as the youngest.

For the first time, Cape Verde, Curacao, Jordan, and Uzbekistan will compete in the FIFA World Cup, showcasing the tournament's expanding reach. Additionally, Portuguese coach Carlos Queiroz will join an elite group of coaches by managing in his fifth consecutive World Cup, this time leading Ghana.

Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Guillermo Ochoa are set to make their sixth World Cup appearances, underscoring their enduring legacy in international football. Meanwhile, Trkiye will make a noteworthy return to the World Cup after a 24-year absence, with their first match scheduled against Australia in Vancouver.

The regulations allow teams to replace a player due to serious injury or illness up to 24 hours before their first match, providing some flexibility for team rosters as the tournament progresses.