The World Cup has not even started, yet it is already overshadowed by off-field controversies. FIFA President Gianni Infantino has been promoting the event as "the greatest event that humanity has ever seen" and an "absolute party," but negative headlines dominate the buildup.
Iran Conflict
The first major issue arose when the United States and Israel attacked Iran on February 28. Iran, having qualified for the World Cup, threatened to boycott after airstrikes killed their leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Italy was suggested as a replacement, and Iran's matches might be moved to Mexico. Infantino insists Iran will play, while US President Donald Trump issued a warning but eventually gave a half-hearted blessing. Iran moved their training base from Arizona to Mexico, accusing the US of discrimination after being told their team must enter and leave the country on the same day as matches.
Trump and Infantino
In December, Infantino awarded Trump the inaugural FIFA Peace Prize, sparking backlash. Months later, US airstrikes on Iran triggered wider conflict. Both leaders have faced ridicule for their comments, with Infantino refusing to engage with criticism.
Ticket Shambles
FIFA's profits are predicted to reach $13 billion for the 2026 cycle, a 72% increase. Ticket prices are staggeringly expensive due to dynamic pricing, sparking backlash. Despite some rollbacks, Infantino defended a $2 million resale ticket. The attorneys general of New York and New Jersey launched an investigation into allegations of misleading ticket sales. Trump commented that he wouldn't pay $1,000 for a USA match ticket. Accommodation, travel, and food costs are also prohibitively high.
Extreme Heat
England's friendly win over New Zealand in Tampa highlighted the heat issue, with 32°C and high humidity. Thomas Tuchel is acclimatising players, but weather conditions will be the biggest factor. Fourteen of 16 venues are expected to exceed dangerous limits. Professor Mike Tipton warned of heat exhaustion, hypothermia, and less entertaining football. FIFA has introduced mandatory drinks breaks but experts fear worrying incidents.
Environmental Impact
This World Cup will be the most polluting ever, generating over nine million tonnes of CO2 equivalent. Venue distances require air travel, and the increase to 48 teams and 108 matches pushes emissions higher. FIFA's partnership with Aramco, a major carbon producer, adds to concerns.
