The 2026 FIFA World Cup has begun amid growing controversy, with several off-field issues drawing as much attention as the football itself.
One of the biggest talking points surrounds Iran, after reports that 15 members of its delegation, including officials and staff, were denied U.S. visas ahead of the tournament.
According to reports, Iran’s original ticket allocation was also revised, while the team relocated its training base to Tijuana, Mexico, crossing the border only on match days for its scheduled fixtures.
The developments have sparked widespread debate among fans and observers over travel arrangements and the participation of teams in the world’s biggest football event.
Beyond the Iran-related issues, the tournament has also faced criticism over ticket prices, with some premium seats reportedly reaching more than 30,000 dollars.
The competition has also seen controversy surrounding the reported exclusion of a Somali referee due to visa issues, raising further questions about access for officials and participants.
Meanwhile, four U.S. state attorneys general have reportedly launched investigations into FIFA ticket pricing practices, adding another layer of scrutiny to the tournament.
Despite the controversies, millions of fans around the world remain focused on the action on the pitch, hoping the football will ultimately define the 2026 World Cup rather than the disputes surrounding it.
