Key facts
- Uzbekistan has qualified for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking its debut in the tournament.
- The qualification was secured with a 0-0 draw against the UAE on June 5, 2025.
- This achievement follows decades of near-misses and a strategic focus on youth development.
- Under FIFA's Club Benefits Programme, Uzbek clubs will receive $11,000 per player per day during the group stage and preparation period.
- Pakhtakor is set to receive the largest share of the club benefits, potentially earning over $1.4 million.
Uzbekistan has achieved a historic milestone by qualifying for its first FIFA World Cup in 2026, a feat that comes after decades of near-misses and a sustained commitment to reform and youth development.
The "White Wolves" secured their spot in the North American tournament with a crucial 0-0 draw against the United Arab Emirates on June 5, 2025, ending their long wait for World Cup participation and shedding the "Asia's chokers" moniker.
This breakthrough is the culmination of a campaign marked by steady performances and strategic investment in young talent. The team's journey was guided by Timur Kapadze, who was succeeded by Italian World Cup winner Fabio Cannavaro in October 2025. Key emerging stars like Abdukodir Khusanov, Eldor Shomurodov, and Abbosbek Fayzullaev represent a new generation poised to redefine Uzbekistan's role in global football.
The qualification validates a long-term strategy focused on developing homegrown talent, with significant investment in infrastructure and coaching. While the immediate priority is development and gaining experience, the success signals the beginning of a new era for Uzbek football.
Financially, the World Cup debut is expected to benefit domestic clubs through FIFA's Club Benefits Programme. Clubs releasing players for the tournament will receive $11,000 per day per player, covering the group stage and preparation period. Pakhtakor, with five players in the squad, is projected to earn the most, potentially over $1.4 million, with other clubs also set to receive substantial amounts. This compensation is distributed proportionally among clubs the player has represented over the past two years, and earnings could increase significantly if Uzbekistan advances to the knockout rounds.