PREVIEW

FIFA Chief Defends Visa Decisions and Ticket Prices Ahead of World Cup Kickoff. As the 2026 World Cup gets underway, FIFA President Gianni Infantino has responded to criticism over visa complications and rising ticket costs. Speaking ahead of the tournament opener, Infantino addressed the case of Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied entry to the United States despite holding a valid visa. He said FIFA is working to resolve issues but cannot overrule government immigration decisions. Infantino also rejected suggestions that hosting the World Cup in the U.S. was a mistake, saying challenges are normal for an event of this scale. On ticket prices, he argued that demand has far exceeded expectations, with more than six million tickets already sold. He said lower prices would likely fuel resale markets and emphasized that tournament revenue helps support football development worldwide. Infantino closed by calling the World Cup a chance to unite people through sport and declared: “Let the celebration begin.”
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