FIFA reportedly found that Democratic Republic of Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi was ineligible to play for the country during the 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign, despite him appearing at the 2026 World Cup. Multiple outlets cite investigations suggesting FIFA was aware of the eligibility issue before the tournament and that the federation was allowed to keep playing without penalties.
Mpasi, who is described as holding French and Congolese nationality and having played for France at youth level, is said to have not completed the required paperwork to ratify his switch of national association. Nigeria filed a complaint after the issue emerged, and Jamaica is also reported to be considering its options. Some reports say FIFA’s legal team dismissed the challenge on a technicality, while others frame the matter as a broader controversy that increases scrutiny of FIFA leadership under president Gianni Infantino. No consistent account is provided across outlets on whether any formal sanctions follow, but all reports center on the ineligibility finding and the implications for competitive integrity and possible legal or procedural responses.
