2026 FIFA World Cup plagued by visa issues and criticism of Infantino

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first tournament staged across three nations—Mexico, the United States and Canada—opens with 48 teams and a record 104 matches. While organizers tout the event’s low‑cost model and projected $14 billion revenue, the tournament has drawn criticism over migration restrictions in the United States.

Somali referee Omar Artan, who arrived with a valid visa, was detained and deported, and members of the Iranian delegation have also faced entry problems. Ticket prices and the high cost of attendance have further fueled debate about the tournament’s inclusivity. FIFA president Gianni Infantino acknowledged the challenges, saying the governing body can only cooperate with governments and cannot dictate immigration policy, while emphasizing the organization’s commitment to unity through football.

The controversy follows prior FIFA corruption scandals that led to the ouster of former president Sepp Blatter and placed additional scrutiny on Infantino’s leadership as the World Cup seeks to project a more transparent and open image.