Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
France 24
France 24
World
Rachael Griffiths

World Cup 2026: More MENA countries competing than ever before

MENA (Organization) World Cup Iran a World Cup Jordan (Geopolitical Entity) Middle East Morocco North Africa the 2026 World Cup
Cover image: MIDDLE EAST MATTERS © FRANCE 24

More Middle East and North Africa (MENA) countries are competing in the 2026 World Cup than at any previous tournament, much to the delight of fans from Morocco to Jordan. But as always with sports, politics is never far from the pitch. Iran, of course, springs to mind. Never before has a country hosted a World Cup while at war with one of the competing nations.

Beyond Iran, what of sportswashing – countries pouring money into football in a bid to launder their image on the world stage? That's an allegation directed at Qatar, which hosted the last World Cup, but also at Saudi Arabia, which will play host to the 2030 tournament.

For more, we speak to sports journalist Ruben Slagter.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
'I Would Have Fed You': A$AP Rocky Brutally Dragged for 'Disrespecting Rihanna' With Wild On-Stage Sex Boast
A$AP Rocky's on-stage comment during a Phoenix show sparked backlash for allegedly disrespecting Rihanna, leading to debates about performance context and relationship expectations.
International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
Taylor Swift, Travis Kelce NYC Wedding Rumours: NYPD Braces for 'Mini-Eras Tour' Disruption
The rumoured wedding of Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce in New York City is expected to be a major cultural event, potentially boosting local businesses and requiring extensive public services
International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
Psychology says people who hang clocks in every room may not be obsessed with time, they could be seeking control, predictability and peace of mind
Psychology teaches us that everyday preferences often reflect deeper psychological patterns. Filling a home with clocks is rarely just about knowing the time. More often, it is connected to a desire for structure, predictability, and the comfort of staying oriented throughout the day.
The Economic Times
The Economic Times
Taylor Swift Wedding Rumours Grow as Travis Kelce's Chiefs Teammates Book Hotels Near MSG
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce are rumoured to be planning a major wedding celebration at Madison Square Garden during the Fourth of July holiday, with preparations reportedly underway in New York City.
International Business Times UK
International Business Times UK
'Dirty' Kitchen Colors Are Everywhere Right Now – Why Designers Love These Muted Tones for Their Surprisingly Luxurious Look
These muddy hues add an unexpected softness to schemes of every size and style
Homes & Gardens
Homes & Gardens
From Michoacán to Your Table: Mexico Banks a Record 40% of Global Avocado Trade
Mexico controls 40% of global avocado exports and earned nearly $4 billion in 2025 — while shipping fewer tons than in 2023. The story behind "less fruit, more dollars" is one of market power, cultural pride, and real tension on the ground.
Latin Times
Latin Times
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.
Download on the AppStore Get it on Google Play