A recent map displayed during the draw for the 2026 FIFA World Cup has drawn criticism from Ukraine, being labeled an “unacceptable error.” The graphic intended to illustrate countries that cannot compete against each other for geopolitical reasons included Ukraine but seemingly excluded Crimea, a region internationally recognized as part of Ukraine.
Since 2014, Crimea has been under Russian occupation, with only a few countries acknowledging the peninsula as Russian territory. Ukraine’s Foreign Ministry spokesman, Heorhiy Tykhy, stated that the nation demands a “public apology” from FIFA for what they deemed an infringement of international law.
On social media, Tykhy emphasized that FIFA not only failed to adhere to international law but also inadvertently supported “Russian propaganda, war crimes, and aggression against Ukraine.” He included an amended version of the map, correctly marking Crimea as Ukrainian territory.
Among the geopolitical matchups restricted by FIFA are Ukraine versus Belarus, Spain against Gibraltar, and Kosovo facing either Bosnia and Herzegovina or Serbia. The Ukrainian Football Association has formally reached out to FIFA and UEFA, urging them to address their concerns regarding the map shown during the draw on December 13, 2024. The letter highlights that the infographic misrepresents Ukraine and contradicts FIFA and UEFA’s established positions since 2014.
The 2026 World Cup is set to kick off on June 11, 2026, in Mexico City and conclude on July 19, 2026, in New Jersey. This expanded tournament will feature 48 teams and last a record 39 days. Ukraine has been placed in Group D, competing against Iceland, Azerbaijan, and the yet-to-be-determined winner of the Nations League quarter-final between France and Croatia.
