The World Cup playoff draw has geographically mapped the short, intense journeys that Wales, Northern Ireland, and the Republic of Ireland must undertake across Europe in their quest for the 2026 World Cup.
Wales benefits from the shortest travel, remaining entirely in the UK for their two potential matches in Cardiff. Northern Ireland faces the longest, most difficult journey—a trip to Italy for the semi-final and a potential flight back to Cardiff for the final.
The Republic of Ireland must first make the trek to Prague for their semi-final against the Czech Republic, followed by a potential shorter journey to host the final in Dublin.
The logistics and travel demands will play an undeniable role in the fitness and preparation of the squads during the short five-day window between the semi-finals (March 26) and the finals (March 31).