Which countries have been excluded from the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to separate controversies?

The correct answer is Russia, Congo, and Pakistan.

In News

• Russia, Congo, and Pakistan have been excluded from the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to separate controversies involving administrative issues, geopolitical sanctions, and third-party interference.

Key Points

• Pakistan was banned due to administrative failures and the failure to adopt a revised constitution for fair elections in its football federation.
• Russia remains banned due to geopolitical sanctions following its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, preventing its teams from competing in FIFA and UEFA competitions.
• Congo was excluded for third-party interference in the affairs of the Congolese Football Association (FECOFOOT).
• The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams, with these nations missing out due to their respective issues.

Additional Information

• FIFA's Suspension History
  • FIFA has banned several countries over the years, including Russia, Pakistan, and Congo, for various reasons such as administrative failures, geopolitical issues, and third-party interference.
  • Other countries previously banned include Iraq, Nigeria, Kuwait, and Indonesia for various violations of FIFA's regulations.
• 2026 FIFA World Cup
  • Hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with 48 teams participating.
  • The 2026 World Cup will be the first to feature an expanded format with 48 teams instead of the usual 32.