The 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, has been mired in controversy before its start, with the US military campaign against participant nation Iran creating unprecedented tensions. FIFA President Gianni Infantino's earlier promise that 'everyone will be welcome' has been challenged by reports of visa denials and security issues.
Iran, participating in its fourth consecutive World Cup, moved its base from Arizona to Mexico following US and Israeli attacks in February. President Donald Trump suggested Iran's participation was inappropriate for their safety, but the Iranian team responded on Instagram, asserting that FIFA, not any host country, governs the tournament. They criticised the US for allegedly failing to provide security for players.
Iran has accused the US of denying visas to some executives and backroom staff, with claims that players were told they must enter and leave the US on the same day of their group matches. The Iranian football federation also said its fan ticket allocation for the group stage had been revoked, raising concerns about political interference. FIFA stated it is working to maximise opportunities for Iranian supporters to attend matches.
Other incidents include Somali referee Omar Artan being denied entry to the US despite having proper documentation and a FIFA visa. Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for hours in Chicago, and the Senegal and Uzbekistan teams faced heavy security searches. These issues have cast a shadow over what was touted as the 'greatest event' in football history.
