The draw for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers had a controversial moment, with FIFA presenting a map showing the Crimean peninsula, occupied by Russia in 2014, not part of Ukraine.
Gianni Infantino is in no hurry to apologize to the Ukrainians. FIFA photo
Several Ukrainian footballers and officials commented on the incident, prompting the neighboring country’s federation to send an official letter to FIFA and UEFA: “We are writing to express our great concern about the European infographic map shown during the drawing of lots. The map showed the territory of Ukraine without the Autonomous Republic of Crimea.
In view of several FIFA and UEFA decisions and resolutions from 2014 onwards, which dealt with the territorial integrity of Ukraine and the protection of our country, including Crimea, from the terrorist state of Russia, we want to emphasize that the version of the map presented by FIFA to an audience of millions people is unacceptable”,
reported the Ukrainian Football Federation.
The Russians say Crimea joined willingly
There was also a reaction from the Russians, who consider FIFA’s gesture logical: “Let’s not forget that in the spring of 2014, following the results of a referendum, Crimea joined Russia.”
The map was projected on the screens during the event when the political restrictions and banned matches in the WC 2026 qualifiers were explained: Spain v Gibraltar, Ukraine v Belarus, Kosovo v Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo v Serbia.
Repeated blunder after 10 years
This is not the first time that FIFA has made the same blunder. 10 years ago, the international forum made a presentation film in which Crimea was attached to Russia. “The local organizing committee called on a communication agency for a projection at the Balşoi Theater. Unfortunately, the map of Russia presented during this event by this supplier escaped our attention, and the brief appearance of the sequence in question was removed.” then FIFA apologized through a spokesperson.
