ZURICH, Switzerland – June 24 (ONLINE) National teams will be allowed to include a maximum of 26 players in their final squads for the World Cup this year, Federation Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) said in a statement.
According to media reports, FIFA has decided to increase the size of the squads as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic and the unusual timing of the tournament.
FIFA has given the go ahead to increase the number of players in their rosters for the tournament in Qatar.
Previously, coaches were allowed to bring 23 players along to each tournament.
“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.” FIFA said in a statement.
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