The FIFA Series is the successor to the FIFA World Series. This biennial football tournament provides an opportunity for national teams from various confederations to compete against each other within the FIFA Days framework (periods dedicated to national team activities according to the FIFA calendar).
Typically, FIFA invites many teams from lower-ranked football nations to participate in this tournament, allowing them the chance to play against various teams worldwide (including strong teams like Croatia). Therefore, this tournament is often likened to a “mini World Cup.”
The tournament was first held in 2024, bringing together 24 teams divided into 6 groups of 4 teams each, hosted by 6 different nations. The success of the FIFA World Series 2024 prompted FIFA to decide to continue organizing the FIFA Series in 2026 for both men’s and women’s national teams.
Last night, FIFA announced that Indonesia has been chosen as one of the 8 host nations for a group stage of the FIFA World Series 2026, alongside Australia, Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Puerto Rico, Rwanda, and Uzbekistan.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino shared on FIFA’s official website: “The FIFA Series aims to expand development opportunities for players, coaches, and fans, while promoting unity and diversity in football through meaningful matches.
By connecting nations through competition, the FIFA Series hopes to strengthen the sport’s development at all levels, bringing local football communities closer to the global stage.”
According to FIFA, despite many countries expressing interest in hosting, the organization selected venues that met all required standards. “The FIFA Series for men’s football will be held in Australia, Azerbaijan, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Mauritius, Puerto Rico, Rwanda, and Uzbekistan,” the statement clarified.
In women’s football, the FIFA Series will debut next year, with three host nations: Brazil, Côte d’Ivoire, and Thailand.
