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World Cup political bans impact several nations ahead of 2026

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 5, 2026, 12:00 PM

Last updated Jun 5, 2026

World Cup political bans impact several nations ahead of 2026

Summary

As preparations for the 2026 World Cup begin, political bans loom over Iran and Haiti, which face full US travel restrictions. Senegal and Ivory Coast are under partial restrictions. While these rules may not prevent competition, they underscore the enduring relationship between the World Cup and global politics. Historical exclusions include Germany and Japan in 1950, South Africa from 1966 to 1990 due to apartheid, and Yugoslavia in 1994 amid civil conflict. More recent suspensions affect Russia related to the invasion of Ukraine, along with Congo and Pakistan for governance issues during the 2026 qualification cycle. Both were later reinstated after addressing FIFA's concerns.

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By the Numbers

•Iran and Haiti face full US travel restrictions ahead of 2026.
•Senegal and Ivory Coast have partial travel restrictions.
•South Africa was banned from 1966 to 1990 due to apartheid.
•Yugoslavia missed the 1994 World Cup amid political turmoil.
•Russia remains barred from FIFA competitions after Ukraine invasion.

Latest Updates

12:00 PMYahoo Sports — Every World Cup nation to have been banned for political reasons

What they're saying

"
World Cup politics are already part of the 2026 build-up, with Iran and Haiti facing full US travel restrictions and Senegal and Ivory Coast under partial restrictions. Those rules are not expected to stop the teams themselves from playing, with athletes and official delegations covered by exemptions.
— Yahoo Sports

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