The 2026 World Cup begins tomorrow at the Azteca stadium in Mexico City, where co-hosts Mexico will face South Africa. The tournament features 48 nations playing 104 matches across Canada, Mexico and the United States, culminating in the final on 19 July.
Donald Trump looms large over the event, with Fifa having awarded him a specially invented prize. He is expected to present the trophy to the winning team. His administration's approach to the tournament has received little pushback from organisers.
There is intense uncertainty over fan access due to strict US immigration rules. Dozens of Scottish fans have had their entry permits revoked, and Iran's allocation of fan tickets has reportedly been cancelled. A Somalian referee has been denied entry, and Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein was held for hours during questioning upon arrival.
The Iranian team has been forced to fly in and out of the US on match days, as the Trump administration refused them permission to spend a single night in the country. Additionally, 15 Iranian officials and support staff have been refused visas. The logistical challenges of hosting across three countries are compounded by these political tensions.
