According to Polish outlet Przeglad Sportowy, Russia has been working for several months on an international tournament that would be played at the same time as the 2026 World Cup.
Banned from all international competitions, in football and beyond, Russia is reportedly looking to put pressure on FIFA by creating its own “alternative World Cup” during the real one. The unofficial goal is to grab global media attention and push for a potential reinstatement in FIFA competitions.
Eight nations that failed to qualify for the 2026 World Cup have already been approached: Serbia, Greece, Chile, Peru, Venezuela, Nigeria, Cameroon and China.
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Chilean radio station ADN Deportes confirms the existence of the project, described by some as a “World Cup for the eliminated.” Washington, D.C. was even considered as a potential host city, although diplomatic issues would make such a scenario nearly impossible.
Russia is not allowed to invite FIFA member federations
Chile, currently on a tour in Russia, is one of the countries contacted. But a major obstacle remains: as long as FIFA and UEFA maintain their ban, Russia is not allowed to organise any international competition involving FIFA member associations, even in a friendly or unofficial format.
Despite this, some sources mention cautious optimism in Moscow, where officials hope the geopolitical climate could shift in the coming months.
Above all, this initiative highlights Russia’s desire to regain influence on the global sports stage and to use football as a tool of soft power, at a time when reports are circulating about a potential peace plan related to the war in Ukraine.
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