Infantino could have stood up for the World Cup - but he said 'chill, relax'
Summary
FIFA President Gianni Infantino told reporters to "chill, relax" regarding recent controversies around the 2026 World Cup in the United States. He described visa denials and security-related problems for referees, players, and fans as unfortunate but said FIFA cannot control government decisions. Infantino also defended the role of U.S. President Donald Trump in making the tournament possible.Key Facts
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino spoke at Azteca Stadium before the 2026 World Cup opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
- Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the U.S. after an 11-hour interrogation and accused of links to terrorists.
- Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for hours at a Chicago airport before being allowed in.
- Iran had to move its team base to Mexico, fans’ tickets were canceled, and some delegation members were denied visas by U.S. authorities.
- Infantino called these incidents "unfortunate" but said FIFA cannot control government immigration or security decisions.
- He argued it would be impossible to host the World Cup in the U.S. without President Donald Trump’s support.
- Infantino compared these issues to past visa challenges when England hosted the 1966 World Cup.
- He mentioned the upcoming 2035 Women's World Cup hosted by the United Kingdom as another example where FIFA does not control government entry decisions.
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