FIFA cuts Gazzetta dello Sport press accreditations for 2026 World Cup final

FIFA reduced the number of press accreditations allotted to Italy’s daily Gazzetta dello Sport for the 2026 World Cup final in New York from five to two, citing a "matter of places". Journalist Filippo Ricci documented the loss of his ticket, mixed‑zone access and parking on social media, saying his World Cup coverage ended abruptly before the final.

Other Italian outlets, including Corriere della Sera and La Repubblica, retained their full contingents of five and three journalists respectively. The selective reduction has sparked accusations of censorship, with critics pointing to recent Gazzetta headlines that criticised FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the tournament’s organization. Davide Chinellato, Gazzetta’s UK correspondent, called the move a "tyranny" of football.

The incident highlights tensions between the sport’s governing body and critical journalism during the high‑profile event.