how many host countries didn't get past world cup group stages

Only one host country has failed to get past the World Cup group stage in the 2026 tournament so far : Canada. The U.S. and Mexico advanced, while Canada did not make it out of the group stage.

Quick scoop

The World Cup is being hosted by three countries this cycle, and the group stage reports show one of them eliminated before the knockout rounds. That makes the count 1 host country not getting past the group stage.

Why this matters

This is notable because the 2026 World Cup is the first with three host nations and 48 teams, so the host-country outcomes have been watched closely. Canada’s situation also stands out because it is the first time a host nation at a World Cup has had to play outside its own borders.

Bottom line

Answer: 1 host country. In the current 2026 World Cup, that host is Canada.