World Cup Qualification
FIFA bans Panama soccer president for six months over ethics violation
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FIFA has imposed a six-month ban on Panama's soccer federation president Manuel Arias for failing to comply with a previous suspension related to fat-shaming a women's national team player. The decision comes just days after Panama qualified for the 2026 World Cup. Arias also faces a 20,000 Swiss francs fine and is barred from the World Cup draw.
Curacao became the smallest nation by population to qualify for the FIFA World Cup after a 0-0 draw with Jamaica on November 18, 2025. Haiti secured their first appearance since 1974 with a 2-0 victory over Nicaragua the same day, despite ongoing challenges in their homeland. These milestones highlight the expanded 48-team tournament's opportunities for underdogs.