FIFA Faces Backlash Over Map Excluding Crimea as Part of Ukraine

Ukraine demands an apology after FIFA displays a map omitting Crimea from Ukraine during the 2026 World Cup qualification draw.

During the 2026 World Cup qualification draw, FIFA used a map that excluded Crimea as part of Ukraine, causing political controversy.
Ukraine's Foreign Ministry accused FIFA of supporting Russian propaganda and demanded a public apology for the incident.
FIFA acknowledged the error, stating the graphic was removed and the issue was discussed with the Ukrainian Football Association.
Crimea has been internationally recognized as part of Ukraine, though it has been under Russian occupation since its annexation in 2014.
The incident comes during an ongoing war between Russia and Ukraine, with Ukraine vowing to reclaim Crimea from Russian control.