Ukrainian MFA protests against country's map shown during 2026 World Cup draw

15:30, 14.12.2024 1 min read

The International Federation of Football Associations (FIFA) showed a map of Ukraine without the temporarily occupied Crimea by Russia during the broadcast of the draw for the group stage of the 2026 World Cup qualification on Friday. Ukraine expects a public apology, Ukrainian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Heorhiy Tykhy said.

"By redrawing international borders in yesterday's broadcast, you not only acted againts international law, but also supported Russian propaganda, war crimes, and the crime of aggression against Ukraine. We fixed the map for you and expect a public apology," Tykhy said on the X social network Friday.

Recall that on Friday in Zurich the draw for the group stage of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers took place, in which the Ukrainian national team is participating. Ukraine was placed in the second basket. The draw format provides for 12 qualifying groups, from which the group winners will advance directly, and another four places will be played for in the playoffs and through the Nations League. The 2026 World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19 in the United States, Canada and Mexico.