Ukraine's Foreign Ministry has issued strong statements against FIFA after the organization displayed a map that excluded Crimea from Ukrainian territory during the 2026 World Cup draw. This incident has reignited tensions over the peninsula, which has been under Russian control since 2014 but is still recognized by most countries as part of Ukraine.
Ukraine Demands FIFA Address Misrepresentation of Crimea in World Cup Draw Map
Ukraine Demands FIFA Address Misrepresentation of Crimea in World Cup Draw Map
Ukraine calls for FIFA to apologize for the erroneous depiction of Crimea on a map used during the World Cup draw, sparking international debate.
The Ukrainian government has officially demanded an apology from FIFA for what they termed an "unacceptable error." The map shown at the December 13 draw did not include Crimea, leading to backlash from Ukrainian officials who believe this act undermines international law and perpetuates Russian propaganda. Foreign Ministry spokesman Heorhiy Tykhy criticized FIFA's map, stating it not only distorts the political landscape but also appears to legitimize Russia’s military actions against Ukraine.
In response to the criticism, FIFA acknowledged the issue and has since removed the controversial graphic. Tykhy shared a corrected version of the map on social media that includes Crimea as part of Ukraine, reinforcing the official stance of the Ukrainian government.
The Ukrainian Football Association has also formally addressed FIFA and UEFA through a letter expressing deep concern over the situation. They highlighted previous decisions made by both organizations regarding Crimea's status and called for a more consistent and legally sound representation of its territorial integrity.
The 2026 World Cup, set to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will feature 48 teams, with Ukraine placed in Group D. The ongoing controversy surrounding Crimea and its representation highlights the challenges sporting organizations face when navigating geopolitical conflicts.
In response to the criticism, FIFA acknowledged the issue and has since removed the controversial graphic. Tykhy shared a corrected version of the map on social media that includes Crimea as part of Ukraine, reinforcing the official stance of the Ukrainian government.
The Ukrainian Football Association has also formally addressed FIFA and UEFA through a letter expressing deep concern over the situation. They highlighted previous decisions made by both organizations regarding Crimea's status and called for a more consistent and legally sound representation of its territorial integrity.
The 2026 World Cup, set to run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will feature 48 teams, with Ukraine placed in Group D. The ongoing controversy surrounding Crimea and its representation highlights the challenges sporting organizations face when navigating geopolitical conflicts.
