Boycott calls, political tension, and a clear French stance — World Cup 2026 debate escalates | OneFootball

Will politics disrupt the 2026 World Cup?

Boycott calls, political tension, and a clear French stance — World Cup 2026 debate escalates

The French Football Federation confirmed it has no intention of boycotting the 2026 World Cup despite political calls in Europe.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held for the first time across three countries, the United States, Canada and Mexico but recent weeks have seen increasing political pressure in Europe and beyond calling for boycott of the tournament.

Several politicians in France, Germany and parts of the Americas have raised concerns linked to policies of US President Donald Trump including stricter visa conditions for visiting supporters and wider political disputes.

French MP Eric Coquerel from the La France Insoumise party urged FIFA to limit the tournament’s hosting duties to Canada & Mexico only excluding the United States from staging matches.

French FA states clearly: No Boycott

In response to the controversy, Philippe Diallo president of the French Football Federation FFF made France’s position clear in comments to Ouest-France.

Diallo said that sport should not be mixed with politics and stressed that the World Cup must remain football competition that brings people together, regardless of background, religion or beliefs.

He rejected any suggestion that France, the 2018 world champions,could withdraw from the tournament saying there is no reason for protest or boycott from the federation’s side.

Diallo added that while international developments are always monitored, there is currently no intention within the FFF to avoid participating in the World Cup hosted in United States.

Different voices emerging in Germany

French media noted that Diallo’s firm stance contrasts with comments coming from Germany.

German Football Federation vice president Oke Göttlich suggested the boycott discussion should be addressed “seriously” showing that the debate remains open in some countries.

However France’s leadership has now taken decisive position ending speculation about the national team’s involvement.