World football governing body FIFA has defended the pricing of tickets and dismissed concerns over visa controversies ahead of the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins on Thursday with hosts Mexico facing South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City.
The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, is the largest in World Cup history, featuring 48 teams and running until the final in New Jersey on July 19. FIFA expects the competition to generate a record $13 billion in revenue.
Speaking in Mexico City on Wednesday, FIFA president Gianni Infantino rejected criticism over the soaring cost of match tickets, some of which have reportedly exceeded $30,000. He argued that the organisation had made affordable options available, including seats priced at $60.
According to Infantino, the $60 entry ticket is lower than playoff ticket prices for major American sports, while the average World Cup ticket price remains below $500.
FIFA reacts to visa controversies
Infantino also addressed concerns surrounding immigration restrictions that have affected some tournament participants and fans. Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States after arriving in Miami following security concerns raised by US authorities. FIFA later confirmed that the official would no longer participate in the tournament.
Describing the development as unfortunate, Infantino said FIFA does not control every aspect of the process and insisted the organisation had worked to resolve issues where possible.
The FIFA president also highlighted Iran’s participation despite tensions between Tehran and Washington, saying many had doubted the country would be able to feature at the tournament.
“People were saying Iran couldn’t come to the World Cup,” Infantino said, adding that FIFA had managed to ensure the team’s participation despite circumstances beyond its control.
Trump’s role praised
Infantino defended his close relationship with US President Donald Trump, stating that the American leader’s involvement had been crucial to staging the World Cup in the United States.
“Without his engagement and involvement, I think it would have been impossible to organise a World Cup in the United States,” he said.
Trump confirmed that he intends to attend some matches and said Infantino had told him that no previous tournament had matched the scale and success expected from the 2026 edition.
South Africa coach Hugo Broos admitted his players would have to cope with the intense atmosphere inside the 85,000-capacity Estadio Azteca when they face Mexico in the opening match.
“They will have 85,000 Mexicans shouting and singing, but we have to focus on our game,” the Belgian tactician said.
Mexico coach Javier Aguirre is also aiming to rewrite history, noting that the hosts have never won the opening match of a World Cup despite playing seven curtain-raisers.
Elsewhere on the opening day, South Korea will face the Czech Republic in Guadalajara.
Bookmakers have installed Spain, France and England among the favourites to lift the trophy, while defending champions Argentina will rely on 38-year-old Lionel Messi in their bid to retain the title
