FIFA President stated that "the entire football world is waiting for Russia's return".

FIFA President Gianni Infantino feels optimistic about the possibility of Russia's quick return to the international football arena after meeting with US President Donald Trump. He expressed hope that this would allow young Russian footballers to play at the international level.

«The entire football world wants Russia to return. This will allow young Russian footballers to compete on the international stage. I dream of all countries being part of FIFA and competing,» – said Infantino.

During his meeting with the FIFA president, Trump acknowledged that he was unaware of Russia's absence from international football tournaments. He stated that the return of the aggressor country to world football would contribute to the establishment of peace.

2026 World Cup. Qualifying Cycle

UEFA (Europe) has 16 spots. The qualifying process in the European zone will last from March 2025 to March 2026 and will consist of two rounds.

1st qualifying round: 12 groups of five or four teams will compete between March and November 2025 using the traditional group system. 12 group winners will secure direct spots in the final stage.

Russia has been banned from international football tournaments since the start of the Russian full-scale invasion. This has led to the loss of the opportunity for the aggressor country to participate in the final stage of the World Cup.