Roy Keane and Ian Wright, former football stars turned ITV pundits, set aside their usual football analysis to criticize FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the governing body, accusing them of having "no idea" and "no clue" as controversies mount around the Club World Cup and tournament organization.
Visa Denial Sparks Outrage
The duo reacted to a series of issues involving the United States, including Somali referee Omar Artan's failure to secure a visa to officiate at the tournament. FIFA has also faced criticism over the treatment of Iran's national team and concerns about traveling supporters encountering difficulties entering the country due to immigration restrictions and foreign policy measures.
Ian Wright, known for his outspoken stance on social justice in sport, described the situation as "the worst it has been." He said: "I've spoken about the spirit of football and all the things that come with the spirit of the game. I think that here they have no idea or clue of the spirit of the game, what is happening and what has happened up to this point."
Wright added: "You look also at people saying things like 'keep politics out of sport.' What are they saying now? This is the worst it's been. We're actually hoping and praying that the football does supersede it all. That's what we need."
Keane: 'Don't Shy Away'
Roy Keane, a former Manchester United hardman, agreed with his fellow pundit, stating that while he was there to "watch the football," he was keen not to "shy away" from contentious political issues. The ex-Ireland international said: "Obviously we're ex-players and now we're pundits and that's why we're here, to watch the football. It's been mentioned, we shouldn't shy away from the problems that are facing officials, supporters, and teams. Once the tournament starts and the opening ceremony gets underway, hopefully it will all be positive from here onwards. But we shouldn't shy away from the issues going on in the background."
Omar Artan Denied Entry
The harsh words come after Omar Artan, who was set to be the first Somali referee at the World Cup finals, was denied entry to the US. Artan was barred from entering the country at Miami International Airport, with a Trump administration source later claiming the 2025 African referee of the year had an "association with suspected members of terror organisations."
Iran's World Cup Challenges
Iran's participation at this World Cup has also been overshadowed by logistical and political challenges stemming from tensions between their country and the US. Last month, the team relocated its training camp from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico, claiming US authorities were unwilling to accommodate their preparations. Under the terms of their travel arrangements, Iran's squad must enter and leave the United States on matchdays for each of its three group-stage fixtures. The situation escalated last week when Iranian officials claimed the US had refused visas for 15 members of the national team's support staff, describing those affected as "key" members of their off-the-pitch unit.
