The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted jointly by United States, Canada, and Mexico, will exclude Russia, Congo, and Pakistan due to separate controversies. Their disqualification is linked to geopolitical tensions, governance violations, and administrative failures, reinforcing FIFA’s commitment to upholding international standards and football governance.
Reasons for Bans
1. Russia’s Continued Exclusion Over Geopolitical Sanctions
- FIFA has reaffirmed Russia’s ban from all international competitions, including the 2026 World Cup.
- The ban was initially imposed in 2022 following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and remains in effect under FIFA and UEFA regulations.
- Aligning with global sanctions, FIFA’s decision underscores its firm stance against nations violating international norms.
- With no signs of the ban being lifted, Russia’s national team will not participate in the upcoming tournament.
2. Congo’s Suspension Over Third-Party Interference
- The Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT) was suspended due to third-party interference in football governance, violating FIFA’s independence policies.
- Despite multiple warnings, Congo failed to establish an independent football administration, leading to its exclusion.
- Although Congo had slim chances of qualifying, the suspension solidifies their absence from the 2026 World Cup.
- The ban will remain in place until FIFA’s governance criteria are met.
3. Pakistan’s Disqualification Over Administrative Failures
- Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) was disqualified due to its failure to implement a revised constitution ensuring transparent elections.
- FIFA and the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) had set governance reforms as a requirement for participation.
- With slow progress on internal reforms, Pakistan remains sidelined from international competitions, including the World Cup.
Previous FIFA Bans on Countries
Since 1950, FIFA has banned 17 countries for violating its regulations. Some notable bans include:
- Germany & Japan – Banned from the 1950 World Cup.
- South Africa – Banned from 1970 to 1990 due to apartheid policies.
- Mexico – Suspended from the 1990 World Cup.
- Chile – Banned from the 1994 World Cup.
- Myanmar – Excluded from 2006 World Cup qualifiers.
- Recent bans include Russia (2022, Euro 2024), Iraq (2008, 2009), Nigeria (2014), Kuwait (2015), Indonesia (2015), Guatemala (2016), Pakistan (2017, 2021, 2025), Chad (2022), and Congo (2022).
2026 FIFA World Cup – First-Ever 48-Team Tournament
For the first time, the 2026 World Cup will feature an expanded format, increasing participation from 32 to 48 teams.
Restructured Qualification Spots:
- Europe – Increased from 13 to 16 teams.
- Africa – Gains 10 slots, including an intercontinental playoff spot.
- Asia – Expanded to 9 qualification spots.
- North & Central America – Between 6 and 8 teams.
- South America – Between 5 and 6 teams.
This expansion allows more nations to compete, increasing global representation and diversity at football’s biggest event.