FIFA rejects criticism over ticket costs, entry restrictions

FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended football’s governing body against criticism over ticket prices and visa-related challenges as the 2026 World Cup gets underway.

Speaking in Mexico City on the eve of the tournament’s opening match, Infantino insisted FIFA was doing everything within its powers to address concerns raised by supporters, officials and media representatives, while stressing that immigration decisions ultimately rest with national governments.

The issue has drawn increased attention following the case of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry into the United States despite holding a valid visa. US authorities said the decision was linked to alleged connections with suspected terrorist elements, a claim that sparked debate about access and participation at the tournament.

Infantino described the situation as unfortunate but maintained that FIFA cannot overrule border control agencies or government authorities. He said the organisation continues to work behind the scenes to resolve outstanding cases where possible.

The FIFA chief also rejected suggestions that visa controversies had undermined confidence in the United States as a host nation. He argued that logistical and administrative challenges were inevitable for an event of such scale and noted that issues had emerged across all three co-host countries, namely the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Ticket pricing has emerged as another source of criticism in the build-up to the tournament, with some fans arguing that the cost of attending matches is beyond the reach of many supporters. Infantino defended FIFA’s pricing structure, citing overwhelming demand for tickets and insisting that revenues generated from the competition are reinvested in football development programmes around the world.

According to FIFA, more than six million tickets have been sold for the expanded 48-team competition, with demand far exceeding available supply. Infantino argued that significantly lower prices would have encouraged ticket resales at inflated rates on secondary markets.