Moscow – Russia is reportedly planning a rival World Cup tournament to challenge FIFA, potentially inviting nations that failed to qualify for the 2026 event. The move comes as Russia remains banned from international competition by FIFA following the conflict in Ukraine.

Russia has been barred from UEFA and FIFA competitions since February 2022, playing only friendly matches against teams outside of the governing bodies for over three years. The nation last participated in a FIFA tournament when hosting the 2018 World Cup.

The proposed tournament, slated to run alongside the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, aims to include nations that did not qualify for FIFA’s flagship event. Reports suggest Russia could extend invitations to teams like Nigeria, Cameroon, China, Greece, Serbia, Chile, and Venezuela.

The Russian Football Federation is reportedly taking steps to organize the competition, with plans to utilize four stadiums that served as venues during the 2018 World Cup. The move is widely seen as an attempt to draw attention to the FIFA ban and potentially pressure the organization to lift the sanctions.

English Summary:

Russia is reportedly planning an alternative World Cup to challenge FIFA. The tournament is scheduled to coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, potentially inviting teams that did not qualify for the FIFA event. This move aims to draw attention to the FIFA ban and push for its removal.