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FIFA President Gianni Infantino defends the US as a World Cup host amid a visa controversy, stating FIFA cannot override US government decisions. The remarks follow the denial of entry to a Somali referee with a valid visa.
Climate experts warn that 25% of matches at the 2026 World Cup could be played in very hot conditions, impacting both players and fans. Sweltering heat in U.S. host cities has already affected European teams training for the tournament. FIFA has implemented cooling breaks and other measures, but high humidity and solar radiation remain major concerns.
FIFA has changed its beverage policy at 2026 World Cup stadiums in the US and Canada, allowing spectators to bring single-use plastic water bottles after an earlier ban sparked criticism from fans and host city officials. The ban was reversed due to backlash over potential price gouging and health risks from extreme heat.
FIFA canceled World Cup tickets issued to about 60 fans due to a website glitch that gave them tickets for $0. The affected fans have been asked to pay the correct amount. This is the latest issue in a controversial ticketing program facing investigations in the US.
FIFA has announced the artist lineup for the three World Cup opening ceremonies in Mexico, USA, and Canada. Shakira and Burna Boy will perform the official song in Mexico City, while Katy Perry leads the show in Los Angeles and Alanis Morissette with Michael Buble headline in Toronto.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to begin next week as the longest and largest tournament in history. For the first time, it will be co-hosted by three nations – the United States, Mexico, and Canada – with a 48-team format, an extra knockout round, and the first-ever halftime show at the final, modeled after the NFL.
FIFA has banned reusable plastic water bottles from 2026 World Cup stadiums, reversing an earlier policy that allowed them. The decision, citing injury risks, has raised concerns about spectator access to water in hot weather expected at many venues.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first expanded to 48 teams, will take place across 16 stadiums in 16 cities spanning three host nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The list includes iconic venues like the 94,000-seat Dallas stadium, Mexico City's Estadio Azteca hosting its third World Cup, and the New Jersey stadium that will host the final.
The Norwegian Football Federation (NFF) has formally backed a complaint against FIFA President Gianni Infantino, accusing him of breaching political neutrality rules by awarding the FIFA Peace Award to US President Donald Trump. NFF President Lise Klaveness confirmed the letter of support at a press conference, acknowledging it has sparked political tension within FIFA's leadership. The complaint, filed by human rights group FairSquare, asks FIFA's ethics committee to determine if Infantino violated neutrality rules.
