The rule aims to maintain competitive balance in the expanded 48-team format, ensuring that the top-ranked team (Spain) and the second-ranked team (Argentina, world champions) are placed in opposite halves of the bracket, with the same applying to the third-ranked team (France) and the fourth-ranked team (England).

Even if these teams do not win their groups, the four seeded countries cannot meet before the semi-finals. Currently ranked fifth, the Brazilian national team is not subject to this balancing rule.

The draw for the 2026 World Cup will take place on December 5th in Washington, with the updated match schedule, including stadiums and kick-off times, to be released on December 6th.