The World Amputee Football Federation (WAFF) has officially confirmed Ukraine's inclusion in the list of participants for the 2026 World Cup. This was reported by Sport RBC.UA, citing the international organization's press service. The Ukrainian team became the last to join the final tournament lineup, taking the place of the withdrawn Irish national team. The Irish players were forced to withdraw due to squad issues and player injuries that prevented them from fielding a full squad for the World Cup.
Mexico to host the world's 24 strongest teams
The 2026 Amputee Football World Cup will be held from 13 to 22 November in the Mexican city of San Juan de los Lagos. The final stage of the tournament will feature 24 national teams — the strongest in this sport. The Ukrainian national team will compete for the main trophy alongside the world's leading squads. The secured spot opens up for Ukrainian athletes the opportunity to represent the national flag at the largest global forum and showcase a high level of play to an international audience.
Triumph in the EAFF Nations League as a springboard
The chance to compete at the World Cup is a logical continuation of the Ukrainian team's successful performances on the international stage. A key step on this path was their triumph in Division C of the EAFF Nations League, which confirmed the high level of preparation of the "blue-and-yellow" side and their competitiveness among European national teams. It was precisely these results that allowed Ukraine to claim the spot in case another team released its slot.
"League of Mighty": the infrastructure for amputee football development in Ukraine
Stepping onto the world stage is the result of the systematic development of amputee football within the country. The "League of Mighty" project, implemented with the support of the UAF fund, today supports more than 25 all-Ukrainian and regional clubs. This infrastructure creates a sustainable ecosystem in which athletes with amputations have the opportunity to train regularly, compete in tournaments, and grow professionally. It is thanks to this base that Ukraine is able to field a competitive national team for World Cup-level competition.
Context and significance of the event
For Ukrainian sport, participation in the Amputee Football World Cup carries special significance. It is not just a sporting achievement, but also a demonstration that people with disabilities are capable of reaching the highest peaks in professional sport. The national team, pictured in their signature yellow kits bearing the UAF emblem and the "League of Mighty" sponsor logo, is preparing for its appearance in Mexico, where it will face the strongest teams on the planet. The tournament, which kicks off on 13 November 2026, will be the main test for Ukrainian amputee footballers and a chance to make their mark in the history of world Paralympic football.
