FIFA denies waiver, OGC Nice and AS Saint-Étienne lose World Cup players

FIFA has refused a derogation request linked to the 2026 World Cup, meaning OGC Nice and AS Saint-Étienne could be without several internationals for the upcoming Ligue 1‑Ligue 2 play‑offs. The play‑offs will decide promotion and relegation between France's top two divisions, with Nice and Saint‑Étienne set to meet as future opponents. Both clubs had asked FIFA to allow their World Cup‑selected players to remain available for the decisive matches, but the governing body rejected the request. The denial leaves the squads potentially missing key internationals, a factor that could influence their performance in the crucial fixtures. The episode underscores the growing tension between club schedules and national team commitments as the 2026 World Cup approaches. Nice and Saint‑Étienne must now adjust their line‑ups and prepare for the play‑offs without the affected players, adding uncertainty to the final round of the competition.