A revolution in the selection process: UEFA changes the qualifying system for the World Cup and Euros
The European Football Union has officially announced a structural reform of the qualifying processes. The traditional group-stage system will be phased out, and replaced by a two-tier system. Thirty-six teams will qualify for the elite division, while another 18–19 teams will form the second division. Only the winners of the top divisions will qualify directly for the next level. The remaining spots will be determined through a playoff format, involving the strongest teams from the second division. Each national team will play six matches, which should reduce the workload and increase the intensity of the matches between teams of high status.
This concept is still preliminary and will be further refined based on feedback from the associations involved. The reform is clearly in line with the logic of the League Cup and the updated European club competitions. It aims to improve commercial appeal and sports fairness. However, the intense competition for spots in the playoffs, along with the risk of being relegated to the lower divisions, could lead to serious discussions among associations at the middle level.
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