Eligibility & Qualification
Can the host nation be eliminated in the group stage?
Quick Answer
Yes, the host nation can be eliminated in the group stage. There are no special rules protecting host countries. South Africa (2010) was the first host nation to fail to advance past the group stage.
Detailed Explanation
While host nations automatically qualify for the tournament without going through qualifying rounds, they receive no advantages once the tournament begins. They must earn their place in the knockout rounds just like every other team.
📌Key Points
- 1No special rules for host nations
- 2South Africa 2010 was eliminated in groups
- 3Host only gets automatic qualification
- 4Must compete fairly in the tournament
📜Related Rules
group stageLearn more →
World Cup Tournament FormatLearn more →
Learn how the FIFA World Cup is structured with group stages, knockout rounds, and the path to the final.