MIES (Switzerland) - The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments are almost here and that means it's time to answer some of the key questions ahead of the action getting underway.
We've broken down everything you need to know ahead of the curtain being raised.
What are the WWC Qualifying Tournaments?
Introduced as part of a positive change to the global FIBA Women's calendar ahead of the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2022, this will be the second edition of the Qualifying Tournaments.
They provide the opportunity for nations to punch a ticket to the flagship FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 in Berlin, Germany during September 4-13 when a new champion will be crowned.
Meanwhile for the first time, two of the nations competing came after winning the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup Pre-Qualifying Tournaments which were another new initiative on the 'Road to Berlin'.
When and where are the WWC Qualifying Tournaments?
The FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 Qualifying Tournaments will take place March 11-17 in four different locations and on three different Continents, highlighting the celebration of global women's hoops and it's ever increasing popularity.
The Qualifying Tournaments will be held in the host cities of Wuhan, China; Lyon-Villeurbanne, France; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Istanbul, Türkiye.
How many tickets are on offer for the big show in Berlin?
There are five nations who are participating but who are already guaranteed their place at the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026.
Those already qualified are Germany as host nation and the four 2025 FIBA Continental champions - namely USA (Americas), Belgium (Europe), Australia (Asia), Nigeria (Africa).
With the FIBA Women's Basketball World Cup 2026 field expanded from 12 to 16 teams, that leaves 11 tickets still up for grabs for the big show - setting up these Qualifying Tournaments perfectly to deliver box-office drama!
What is the format of the WWC Qualifying Tournaments?
Each of the four Qualifying Tournaments is made up of one group containing six teams who will play each other on a round-robin basis, meaning five games for each country.
That means there will be 60 games for fans to enjoy across five gamedays which will take place on Wednesday, March 11; Thursday, March 12; Saturday, March 14; Sunday, March 15 and Tuesday, March 17.
The top three teams from each Qualifying Tournament will qualify for the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup, along with a Continental Cup winner. However, in the Qualifying Tournament that features both a Continental Cup champion and host nation Germany, only the top two teams will advance.
For more on the Competition System, click here.
Which stars will be playing at the WWC Qualifying Tournaments?
The 'Road to Berlin' continues to be soaked with the biggest names in the global women's game. From last year's Continental MVP's including the likes of Emma Meesseman of Belgium, to USA's high-profile changing of the guard with superstars Caitlin Clark and Paige Bueckers, the level of talent will be off the charts.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets for the games are available at the official ticket portals as follows:
Istanbul, Lyon-Villeurbanne, San Juan and Wuhan.
How else can I follow the event?
Our social media team will be hard at work to give you the best coverage possible on dedicated FIBA channels on Instagram, Facebook and X.
You should also look out for #FIBAWWC and make sure you include the hashtag on your posts too!
FIBA