The final two places will be decided via play-offs between the remaining runners-up and the best-ranked 2026-27 Nations League non-qualified group winners.
The make-up of the play-offs will depend on the number of spots needed for the host nations.
If two are used, then eight teams will compete in two pathways for the final two spots, with single leg semi-finals and finals.
If one is used then 12 countries will compete in three pathways for the three remaining spots, with single leg semi-finals and finals.
If none of the four places are used by host nations then eight teams will contest four home-and-away play-offs, with the winners going through.
Should all of the home nations emerge through qualifying as either group winners or runners-up, then four spots will be allocated through the play-offs.
Six stadiums in England – Wembley, Etihad Stadium, Anfield, Villa Park, Everton’s Hill Dickinson Stadium and St James’ Park in Newcastle – will host games in 2028, while Dublin’s Aviva Stadium, Hampden Park in Glasgow and the Principality Stadium in Cardiff make up the list.
Northern Ireland was originally named as a host nation, but has since pulled out after Belfast’s Casement Park was removed as an option due to funding..
The qualification schedule is expected to be finalised in autumn 2025.
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