FIFA has sanctioned 17 countries for breaching its official regulations, with three football associations suspended due to “serious circumstances” as the 2026 World Cup nears.
As of February 2025, FIFA ranks 211 nations in its men’s world rankings, while 194 countries compete in women’s international football.
Russia remains barred from FIFA events following its 2022 invasion of Ukraine. FIFA and UEFA have extended Russia’s ban through the 2026 World Cup.
FIFA has also suspended the football federations of Congo and Pakistan over major issues, preventing them from participating in the 2026 World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Since 2006, FIFA has banned 17 nations, some of which have been reinstated, while others remain suspended. Most bans result from third-party interference, often involving government involvement in football affairs.
Notable World Cup Bans:
Germany & Japan (1950 World Cup): Banned due to their roles in World War II. Japan’s Football Association was suspended in 1945 for failing to pay dues, while Germany’s federation was dissolved and not reformed in time.
South Africa (1970–1990 World Cups): Suspended in 1961 due to apartheid policies. FIFA upheld the ban until apartheid ended in 1991, preventing South Africa from competing in the 1990 tournament.
Mexico (1990 World Cup): Disqualified for two years after fielding ineligible players in a youth qualifier, missing the 1990 tournament.
Chile (1994 World Cup): Banned after goalkeeper Roberto Rojas staged an injury during a match against Brazil. He received a lifetime ban.
Myanmar (2006 World Cup): Prohibited from the 2006 qualifiers after withdrawing from a 2002 match against Iran. FIFA also fined them $23,500.
Other Countries Banned by FIFA:
Russia (2022 World Cup, Euro 2024)
Iraq (2008, 2009)
Nigeria (2014)
Kuwait (2015)
Indonesia (2015)
Guatemala (2016)
Pakistan (2017, 2021, 2025)
Chad (2021)
Zimbabwe (2022)
Kenya (2022)
Congo (2025)
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