FIFA approves 26-man squads for Qatar WC
BI Report || BusinessInsider
Gianni Infantino. Photo: File
FIFA has allowed the national teams to include a maximum of 26 players for the upcoming World Cup in Qatar. The decision was made on Thursday.
Earlier, the coaches were allowed to announce a 23-player squad. The relaxation of the rule will help the teams during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A statement from FIFA reads, "Given the need to retain additional flexibility due to the unique timing of the FIFA World Cup 2022 in the global calendar, as well as the broader context of the disruptive effects caused by the Covid-19 pandemic on squads before and during tournaments, the Bureau has decided the following:
"The maximum number of players on the release list has been increased from 35 to 55.
"The number of players to be included on the final list has been increased to at least 23 and a maximum of 26.
"The final matchday at club level for the 23 to 26 players nominated on the final list will be 13 November 2022.
"No more than 26 people (up to 15 substitutes and 11 team officials – one of these officials must be the team doctor) will be allowed to sit on the team bench."
The flagship tournament of FIFA will kick off in Qatar on November 21 and run until December 18.
