2026 WC: 17 teams disqualified from major tournaments as Senegal faces possible sanction

Senegal's victory in the Africa Cup of Nations in January 2026 has been tainted by controversy after 'The Lions of Teranga' triumphed over Morocco in a peculiar situation. Increasing speculation suggests the possibility that the team might still be disqualified from the 2026 World Cup and could lose their championship title.

In the final moments of the game, Pape Thiaw’s squad departed the field after a contentious penalty was given to Morocco while the game was still tied. Almost 20 minutes later, Brahim Diaz failed to convert the penalty after the Senegal players had re-entered the field.

This incident has stirred discussions regarding potential penalties, which could include the drastic measure of revoking the title from Sadio Mane and his teammates. Nonetheless, Senegal would not be the first team in the history of football to encounter disqualification.

17 Teams That Have Been Banned or Disqualified in Football
All English Clubs (UEFA Competitions, 1985–1991) – In the wake of the Heysel tragedy, where 39 individuals lost their lives during Liverpool’s European Cup final against Juventus, UEFA imposed a ban on all English teams until 1991.

Barnsley (FA Cup, 2023) – The club was disqualified for playing striker Aiden Marsh, who was ineligible because of loan restrictions.

Besiktas (UEFA Competitions, 2013–2014) – The club received a one-year ban due to involvement in a match-fixing scandal.

Chile (World Cup, 1994) – Goalkeeper Roberto Rojas pretended to be injured during the 1990 World Cup qualifiers, resulting in Chile being banned from the 1994 tournament.

Fenerbahce (UEFA Competitions, 2013–2015) – The team, linked to the 2013 match-fixing scandal, was handed a two-year European ban.

Germany (World Cup, 1950) – The nation was excluded from competition due to the effects of World War II.

Japan (World Cup, 1950) – Barred for similar post-war reasons.
Greenwich Borough (FA Cup, 2000 & 2004) – The club faced disqualification on two occasions for fielding ineligible players and eventually ceased operations in 2020.

Ismaily SC (CAF Champions League, 2018) – The Egyptian club was disqualified after fans assaulted officials and opposing players.

Juventus (UEFA Competitions, 2023–2024) – The club was excluded from the Europa League for violating Financial Fair Play regulations.

Mexico (International Football, 1988–1990) – The under-20 team fielded four ineligible players, resulting in a two-year suspension.

Nigeria (International Football, 2014) – The nation was temporarily banned due to government interference, although the suspension lasted only nine days.

FK Pobeda (UEFA Competitions, 2009–2017) – The club faced an eight-year ban due to issues related to betting.

Real Madrid (Copa del Rey, 2015) – The team was disqualified for playing Denis Cheryshev while he was suspended and also incurred a fine.

Russia (FIFA & UEFA Competitions, 2022–Present) – The country was suspended following the invasion of Ukraine by Vladimir Putin.

South Africa (International Football, 1961–1992) – The nation faced a ban of 31 years due to apartheid policies.
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