UEFA: “In each of the 12 groups for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, there are teams that will oppose playing matches against the

The Russian national team will not play in the qualifiers for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This was stated by UEFA.

“The composition of the groups does not allow the Russian national team to count on its inclusion in the qualifying tournament. In each of the 12 groups, there are teams that will oppose playing matches with the Russians. Despite the fact that there are loyal countries towards the Russian national team, and even those willing to play with it in the qualifiers, in the event of the Russian national team's inclusion, there is a high risk of violating the integrity of the calendar and disrupting the qualifying tournament in this group.

In addition to the sporting factor, there is also a political situation that is unlikely to allow the Russian delegation to obtain the necessary documents for staying in European countries. Therefore, it can be said that the Russian national team will not be able to participate in the qualifiers and will be forced to miss the World Cup,”— the words of a source from the Russian propaganda channel “Match TV” at UEFA are cited.