how many teams have been knocked out of the world cup

As of June 29, 2026, 17 teams have been knocked out of the World Cup: 16 after the group stage and 1 in the Round of 32.

Quick scoop

The count depends on when you’re asking , because teams keep getting eliminated as the tournament advances. Recent reporting from several outlets puts the total at 17, with South Africa becoming the first knockout-round exit.

What that means

• Group stage exits: 16 teams.
• Knockout-round exits: 1 team.
• Total eliminated so far: 17 teams.

Context

The 2026 World Cup started with 48 teams, so many nations are still alive compared with older tournaments. That’s why the eliminated count rises quickly once the group stage wraps up.

TL;DR: 17 teams have been knocked out so far.