Diaspora Players Shape the 2026 World Cup with New Eligibility Rules

The tournament roster includes 1,248 players, of whom 292 were born outside the nation they represent, reflecting historic migration patterns and former colonial links. FIFA’s recent eligibility adjustments give athletes greater freedom to choose their national side.

Notably, ten French‑born Senegalese stars are set to feature for Senegal, underscoring the diaspora’s impact.