Will Rafael Leao & Nicolas Jackson miss FIFA World Cup 2026 openers after red cards in friendlies?

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is officially set to start on June 11.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has arrived after months of anticipation, with Mexico vs. South Africa kicking off what promises to be an incredible tournament. Co-hosted by the USA, Mexico and Canada, the competition will return to North American soil after 32 years, since the 1994 World Cup in the USA.

This will also be the largest edition to date, with a record 48 nations set to participate for the first time, a huge increase from the previous 32. From perennial favourites to underlooked debutants, the team are all set to battle it out for the sport’s most coveted title.

While the campaign is almost underway, there has been increased concern about player availability, especially among those who received a red card suspension. The most notable names who are uncertain to be in the opening matchday squad are Rafael Leão and Nicolas Jackson.

Rafael Leão was suspended after receiving a straight red card in the 44th minute against Chile, after a physical altercation with Chilean player Iván Román, knocking the player to the ground. The player later defended his actions, stating that he intended to defend his teammate João Cancelo and never meant to cause any harm.

Nicholas Jackson was penalised during Senegal’s goalless draw against Saudi Arabia, being sent off after receiving two yellow cards in only three minutes. He was first booked after a careless play in the 82nd minute. Later, in the 8th minute, a reckless, unprofessional challenge.

Will Leao and Jackson be suspended?

It has been officially confirmed that neither player will serve a suspension for their country’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as provided in the FIFA disciplinary rulebook.

Under FIFA Disciplinary Code Article 69, card suspensions accumulated during friendly matches do not carry over into the official World Cup tournament. Both Leão and Jackson are completely cleared to play in their respective group openers.

Portugal will be kicking off their World Cup campaign against DR Congo at NRG Stadium in Texas, USA, while Senegal will start their ultimate challenge against tournament favourites France at MetLife Stadium in New York, USA.

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