Copa do Brasil 2026 Set to Be Largest Ever with 126 Teams and New Libertadores Qualifications
Copa do Brasil 2026 expands to 126 teams with new Libertadores qualification rules and Série A teams entering in the fifth phase.
- • Copa do Brasil 2026 features a record 126 clubs, 34 more than in 2025.
- • Champion and runner-up will qualify for Copa Libertadores, champion to group stage, runner-up to preliminaries.
- • All Série A teams enter the tournament in the fifth phase, joining 12 qualifiers from the fourth phase.
- • Fifth phase matchups are drawn with two-legged ties scheduled for late April and mid-May.
Key details
The Copa do Brasil 2026 kicks off with the official draw for the first phase held on Wednesday, March 28, marking the start of what is set to be the largest edition of the tournament in history. This year’s competition features a record-breaking 126 participating clubs, an increase of 34 teams compared to the 2025 edition, which was won by Corinthians.
A key change in the 2026 format is the Libertadores qualification pathway: both the champion and the runner-up will secure places in the Copa Libertadores— the champion entering the group stage, and the vice-champion gaining a spot in the preliminary rounds. This adjustment heightens the stakes for all competitors.
All teams from the Série A of the Brasileirão will join the tournament starting at the fifth phase. They will be joined by twelve teams advancing from the fourth phase. The fifth phase matchups will be determined via draw, pitting the top 16 ranked teams against the bottom 16. These round of 32 clashes will be played over two legs on April 22-23 and May 13-14, with winners progressing to the round of 16.
This expanded and restructured Copa do Brasil aims to increase competitiveness and opportunities for a broader range of clubs nationwide, solidifying its position as a premier knockout tournament in Brazilian football.
This article was translated and synthesized from Brazilian sources, providing English-speaking readers with local perspectives.
