FIFA World Cup 2026
Netherlands at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Overview
The Netherlands is a densely populated constitutional monarchy on the North Sea, famous for polders and water engineering, Amsterdam as its constitutional capital and The Hague as the seat of government, Dutch‑speaking with Frisian co‑official in Friesland.
Netherlands have never lifted the trophy, but their best run is as World Cup finalists (1974, 1978, 2010) across 11 World Cup appearances. At the World Cup, Johnny Rep features prominently in the scoring charts for Netherlands with 7 goals. All-time, Robin van Persie leads Netherlands's senior men's scoring list with 50 goals.
At World Cup 2026, Netherlands line up in Group F as UEFA representatives from Europe. Group-stage fixtures against Japan, Tunisia and Sweden open a competitive first-round schedule.
Quick facts
- Capital
- Amsterdam
- Continent
- Europe
- Federation
- UEFA (Europe)
- Group
- F
- FIFA ranking (Nov 2025)
- #7
- World Cup titles
- 0
Geography
- Founded / established
- 1581
- Population
- 17,973,000
- Languages
- Dutch (official); Frisian co‑official in Friesland
- Currency
- Euro (EUR)
- Area
- 41,543 km²
- Highest point
- Mount Scenery (887 m)
- Climate
- Temperate maritime; mild damp winters and cool summers
- Land borders
- Belgium, Germany
Football facts
- Appearances
- 11
- Best result
- Runner-up (1974, 1978, 2010)
- Top scorer
- Johnny Rep (7)
- Debut
- 1934
2026 World Cup kits
Home kit
Main color: orange
World Cup history
11 World Cup appearances
| Year | Result |
|---|---|
| 2026 | Qualified (2026) |
| 2022 | Quarter-finals |
| 2014 | Third place |
| 2010 | Runner-up |
| 2006 | Round of 16 |
| 1998 | Fourth place |
| 1994 | Quarter-finals |
| 1990 | Round of 16 |
| 1978 | Runner-up |
| 1974 | Runner-up |
| 1938 | Round of 16 |
| 1934 | Group stage |
Frequently asked questions
- Has Netherlands ever won the FIFA World Cup?
- No. Netherlands have not won the men's World Cup; their best finish is World Cup finalists (1974, 1978, 2010).
- Which group is Netherlands in at World Cup 2026?
- Netherlands are in Group F. Group opponents include Japan, Tunisia, Sweden.
- What is the capital of Netherlands?
- The capital city is Amsterdam.
- Which FIFA confederation does Netherlands belong to?
- Netherlands compete under UEFA (Europe).
- How many World Cups has Netherlands played before 2026?
- Netherlands had appeared in 11 FIFA World Cups prior to qualifying for 2026.
- Who is Netherlands's all-time leading goal scorer?
- Robin van Persie leads Netherlands's senior men's national team with 50 goals in FIFA-recognised matches.