Overview
- The original promotional graphic for already qualified teams used Bruno Fernandes to represent Portugal instead of Cristiano Ronaldo.
- FIFA removed the first post without explanation and later issued a revised poster that includes Ronaldo, with Argentina and Lionel Messi still featured most prominently.
- The omission triggered a surge of social media criticism, including accusations that FIFA favors Messi over Ronaldo.
- Coverage notes separate scrutiny of Ronaldo for attending a White House dinner with President Donald Trump and Saudi crown prince Mohammed bin Salman, with his sister publicly defending him.
- The 2026 World Cup will be staged in the United States, Canada and Mexico, with 42 of 48 teams qualified and the group-stage draw set for Dec. 5 in Washington, D.C.