Russia, Congo, Pakistan are three countries which cannot play in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, the Russian Football Union (RFU) has been banned from both FIFA and UEFA games.

For the Congolese Football Association (FECOFOOT), an official FIFA statement said, "FECOFOOT has been suspended with immediate effect due to a particularly serious situation of undue interference by third parties in the affairs of the organisation, which constitutes a clear violation of FECOFOOT’s obligations in accordance with the FIFA Statutes.

"The decision was taken in consultation with CAF after two FIFA/CAF missions were dispatched to Brazzaville."

According to FIFA, the suspension will only be reversed if FECOFOOT's autonomy was restored, and its headquarters returned to the full control of the Congolese Football Association, among other things.

The Pakistan Football Federation (PFF) was suspended following its failure to adopt a reviewed constitution expected to “ensure truly fair and democratic elections”.

"The suspension will only be lifted subject to the PFF Congress approving the version of the PFF Constitution presented by FIFA and the AFC," FIFA assured.

Three countries will host the 2026 FIFA World Cup: USA, Canada, and Mexico.

Argentina is the defending champion after lifting the coveted trophy in Qatar in 2022.