UEFA has unveiled plans to implement a Champions League-inspired approach for national team qualification in Europe by the time of the 2030 World Cup.
The top 36 ranked nations will be divided into three groups of 12 in League A, where teams will play against six opponents. This structure mirrors the ‘Swiss system’ adopted in the new league phase of UEFA’s club competitions since the 2024-25 season.
League B will consist of three groups of six teams or possibly two groups of six and one group of seven, depending on the number of nations involved.
While the precise details of the qualification process are still being finalized, UEFA has confirmed that the three group leaders in League A will earn direct berths to the Euro or World Cup finals. The remaining spots will be determined through playoffs that include teams from both leagues.
This format aims to keep higher-ranked teams separate from lower-ranked ones, thereby reducing the likelihood of overly lopsided qualifying matches.
UEFA’s executive committee is expected to formally approve the new qualification structure for Euro and World Cup events at a meeting in September.
UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin stated, “These new formats will enhance competitive balance, minimize uncompetitive matches, provide a more engaging experience for fans, and offer fair qualification opportunities for all teams—without adding extra dates to the international calendar.”
“Ultimately, these changes will elevate the prestige of UEFA men’s national team football, and we look forward to rolling out the new competition systems.”
Football Association chief executive Mark Bullingham, who is a member of UEFA’s national teams competition committee, highlighted the necessity of revising the current qualification structure during a discussion in November.
He remarked, “We must continually seek ways to enhance international football, and there is a genuine desire to do so.”
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As per the proposal, the 2030 co-hosts, Spain and Portugal, will automatically qualify for the finals but will still participate in the qualifying event, with goals associated with the Nations League.
Additionally, UEFA plans to revise the Nations League format starting with the 2028-29 season, shifting from four leagues to three leagues, each containing 18 teams.
Each league will comprise three groups of six teams, with each team facing five opponents. The existing quarterfinals, semifinals, and finals will continue to be held in the March and June international windows.