As of February 2025, the following countries are banned from participating in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup:
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Russia: Suspended since February 2022 due to the invasion of Ukraine.
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Congo: Suspended in February 2025 due to government interference in football operations.
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Pakistan: Suspended in February 2025 due to government interference in football operations.
These suspensions mean that the national teams of these countries are currently prohibited from participating in FIFA-sanctioned matches, including the 2026 World Cup.