Ivory Coast is set to arrive at the 2026 FIFA World Cup with the youngest squad among all participating nations, according to projections based on the average age of players on the tournament’s opening day.
The Elephants are expected to have an average squad age of 25 years and 310 days, making them the only team with an average age below 26 years. The youthful profile reflects the country’s successful transition to a new generation of players following recent international success. Ecuador is projected to have the second-youngest squad at the tournament, with an average age of 26 years and 28 days.
Morocco follows closely behind at 26 years and 144 days, continuing a trend that has seen the Atlas Lions place significant trust in emerging talent. Bosnia-Herzegovina ranks fourth on the list with an average age of 26 years and 154 days, while Tunisia is expected to field a squad averaging 26 years and 235 days.
Spain, long admired for its ability to produce young stars, is projected to have an average age of 26 years and 273 days. Norway, led by one of Europe’s most exciting generations of players, is expected to average 26 years and 293 days. South Africa completes the list of the tournament’s eight youngest squads, with an average age of 26 years and 295 days.
The rankings highlight the growing influence of youth at international level, with teams increasingly relying on younger players capable of bringing energy, pace and long-term potential to football’s biggest stage.
As the countdown to the expanded 48-team World Cup continues, these nations will hope their youthful squads can translate promise into success when the tournament kicks off in North America.
Youngest Projected Squads at the 2026 FIFA World Cup
1. Ivory Coast — 25 years, 310 days
2. Ecuador — 26 years, 28 days
3. Morocco — 26 years, 144 days
4. Bosnia-Herzegovina — 26 years, 154 days
5. Tunisia — 26 years, 235 days
6. Spain — 26 years, 273 days
7. Norway — 26 years, 293 days
8. South Africa — 26 years, 295 days
