The FIBA Executive Committee has officially confirmed the host cities for the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments, marking another significant milestone in the journey to what promises to be the premier women's basketball event of 2026.
Four exceptional cities have been selected to stage these crucial qualifying tournaments, each bringing a rich history of hosting international basketball events and world-class sporting infrastructure.
The Four Host Cities
Istanbul
Türkiye
Lyon-Villeurbanne
France
San Juan
Puerto Rico
Wuhan
China
Each of these host cities brings extensive experience in staging international basketball competitions. Türkiye previously hosted the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup in 2014 and the FIBA U17 Basketball World Cup in 2024. France organized the 2020 Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament in Bourges and served as a central stage for basketball at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. San Juan successfully held one of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournaments in 2024, while Wuhan was a host city for the FIBA Basketball World Cup 2019.
Teams Qualified for the Tournament
A total of 24 national teams have earned their places in the qualifiers based on outstanding performances at their respective Continental Cups:
Czechia, Hungary (European Pre-Qualifiers winners)
Tournament Format & Qualification Path
Each qualifying tournament will feature six teams competing in a round-robin format, ensuring every team plays five games. The format guarantees maximum competition and fair assessment of each team's capabilities.
Generally, the top three teams from each tournament will advance to the World Cup. However, in the tournament that includes Germany as the host nation, only the top two teams will join Germany and a Continental Cup champion in progressing to Berlin 2026.
Already Qualified: Five teams have already secured their spots for Berlin 2026 - Germany, Australia, Belgium, Nigeria, and USA - having earned direct berths as continental champions. However, they will still participate in the qualifying tournaments alongside the remaining 19 teams.
Key Timeline
Official Draw Ceremony
The draw ceremony will take place at FIBA's Patrick Baumann House of Basketball in Switzerland, with live streaming available on the FIBA YouTube channel for fans worldwide.
Qualifying Tournaments
Four simultaneous qualifying tournaments across Istanbul, Lyon-Villeurbanne, San Juan, and Wuhan will determine the final participants for the World Cup.
World Cup Begins in Berlin
The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 tips off in Berlin, marking the flagship event for women's basketball and the culmination of this qualification journey.
This announcement represents a crucial step toward what promises to be an exceptional celebration of women's basketball. With experienced host cities, qualified teams from across the globe, and a clear path to Berlin 2026, the stage is set for memorable competitions that will showcase the highest level of international women's basketball.
Be Part of Basketball History
Don't miss your chance to witness the world's best women's basketball teams compete for glory in Berlin 2026.
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