September 8, 2025-Published by Cyril
The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has been full of drama, with several nations facing suspension from football’s biggest stage. Initially, reports highlighted Russia, Congo, and Pakistan as countries sidelined from the tournament. However, fresh updates confirm that only Russia remains officially banned from the competition.
Russia: Still Excluded from the 2026 World Cup
Russia continues to face a FIFA and UEFA ban following the invasion of Ukraine in 2022. This means the Russian Football Union (RFU), its men’s and women’s national teams, and all domestic clubs remain ineligible to participate in international tournaments, including the World Cup qualifiers. FIFA has made it clear that this sanction will remain until further notice, making Russia the only country currently barred from the 2026 World Cup.
Congo: Suspension Lifted
In February 2025, the Republic of Congo (FECOFOOT) was suspended by FIFA over “serious third-party interference” in its football federation. This initially prevented Congo from continuing in the African World Cup qualifiers, with their opponents handed automatic wins. But by May 2025, FIFA announced that the suspension had been lifted after governance reforms were put in place, restoring Congo’s eligibility to compete.
Pakistan: Back in FIFA’s Good Books
The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) was also suspended in early 2025 due to failure to adopt a FIFA-approved constitution ensuring free and democratic elections. This exclusion sparked fears of a long-term ban. However, in March 2025, Pakistan resolved the issue by adopting the required reforms, leading FIFA to lift the suspension and reinstate the country in international football competitions.
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Final Verdict
As of today, the only nation officially banned from the 2026 FIFA World Cup is Russia. Both Congo and Pakistan have regained their eligibility after resolving governance and compliance issues with FIFA.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, promises to be the biggest tournament yet, with 48 teams competing across multiple cities. Football fans worldwide will be watching closely as the qualifying matches unfold—minus Russia, who remain sidelined.
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