image sourced from original article at Despite the expansion of the 2026 World Cup to 48 teams, many of the world's most populous countries have failed to qualify. Nations such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, China, Indonesia, Russia, Ethiopia, the Philippines, and Vietnam will not be represented at the tournament.
A combination of factors explains their absence, including the dominance of other sports like cricket in South Asia, lack of football infrastructure and investment, political issues, and historical challenges. While football remains popular in many of these countries, systemic issues have hindered the development of competitive national teams.
Some countries, like China and Indonesia, have made efforts to improve their football programs, but results have been limited. Others, such as Russia, are currently suspended from international competition due to political reasons. The article highlights the complex mix of cultural, economic, and political factors that contribute to the underrepresentation of these populous nations at the world's premier football event.
