By Kwame Bediako
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to take place across the United States, Canada and Mexico, will notably exclude three nations due to separate controversies. Russia, Congo and Pakistan have each faced suspensions or bans that prevent their participation in the prestigious tournament.
Russia’s exclusion stems from the ongoing conflict with Ukraine. The Russian Football Union (RFU) has been banned from FIFA and UEFA competitions since the invasion in February 2022. This decision, upheld by FIFA and UEFA, means neither the men’s nor women’s teams can compete in the World Cup or European Championships. Domestic clubs are also barred from UEFA competitions, highlighting the widespread impact of the ban.
Congo’s suspension is attributed to ‘serious circumstances’ involving undue third-party interference in the affairs of the Congolese Football Association (FECOFOOT). FIFA, in consultation with the Confederation of African Football (CAF), has halted Congo’s participation until specific conditions are met, including regaining control of their headquarters and ceasing unauthorized financial changes. Currently, Congo sits at the bottom of Group E in CAF qualifiers.
Similarly, Pakistan’s exclusion is due to governance issues within the Pakistan Football Federation (PFF). The suspension was enacted after the PFF failed to adopt a revised constitution aimed at ensuring fair and democratic elections. FIFA requires the PFF Congress to approve the new constitution before lifting the ban. Pakistan had finished last in Group G of the AFC qualifiers.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, with the USA hosting the majority of matches in 11 stadiums, will feature a joint effort with three cities in Mexico and two in Canada. Defending champions Argentina, who clinched their third title in 2022 by defeating France on penalties, will aim to retain their crown.
One Response
Why not also Isreal, Rwanda and Uganda?