Global football is navigating one of its most turbulent periods in recent memory, caught between political tension and rising commercial barriers. As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathers pace, the sport’s biggest showpiece is facing growing unease, with debates around access, affordability and international politics threatening to steal attention from the game itself.
The tournament, scheduled to run from June 11 to July 19, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with the U.S. staging the bulk of the 104 matches. While the expanded format promises a bigger and more diverse competition, off-pitch issues are already casting a long shadow.
At the centre of the storm is U.S. President Donald Trump, whose hardline immigration stance has reignited fears over visa restrictions for players, officials and supporters. These concerns persist despite earlier assurances made during the bidding process that all participants would be granted smooth entry. Recent policy reversals, including visa bans affecting nationals from dozens of countries, have deepened anxiety among fans, particularly from parts of Africa and the Middle East.
Iran has emerged as one of the most affected nations. Tensions escalated after members of its football delegation reportedly faced visa denials ahead of the World Cup draw, sparking threats of a boycott. The situation has only grown more delicate amid rising diplomatic strain and renewed unrest within Iran, raising questions about how politics could disrupt the tournament atmosphere.
Elsewhere, Trump’s confrontational posture toward neighbouring hosts Mexico and Canada has added another layer of uncertainty. Critics warn that these dynamics could limit the presence of genuine supporters, undermining the global spirit that defines the World Cup.
Away from politics, FIFA itself is under fire over ticket pricing. What was once an accessible event for everyday fans has become increasingly exclusive. Prices for knockout-stage matches have soared into figures many supporters simply cannot afford, especially when combined with travel, accommodation and living costs. Even respected voices within the game have urged fans to think twice before draining their savings to attend.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has defended the pricing structure by pointing to massive demand, citing hundreds of millions of ticket requests shortly after sales opened. Still, the argument has done little to ease concerns that football’s biggest festival is drifting further from its grassroots.
Infantino’s visibly close relationship with Trump has also raised eyebrows. Their public camaraderie during recent FIFA events in the U.S. has drawn criticism, with some suggesting the alliance risks politicising football at a time when unity is most needed.
Yet, despite the turbulence, the 2026 World Cup carries historic promise. It will be the first edition to feature 48 teams, marking another chapter in the competition’s long evolution. From its modest beginnings in 1930 with just 13 teams, the tournament has steadily expanded, opening doors for more nations to compete on the world stage.
Africa stands to benefit significantly from this expansion, with at least eight guaranteed slots and the possibility of a ninth. Several nations will make their World Cup debut, reinforcing the event’s growing inclusivity. Financial rewards have also increased, with even group-stage participants set to receive substantial earnings, offering vital support for football development back home.
For Nigeria, however, the story is bittersweet. The Super Eagles will miss consecutive World Cup appearances for the first time since their debut in 1994, a rare absence that underscores how unforgiving qualification has become, even with expanded slots.
As anticipation builds, many believe the responsibility now lies with FIFA to rebalance its priorities. Making football truly inclusive will require more than expansion and prize money. It will demand meaningful collaboration with host governments to ease travel barriers and a renewed commitment to keeping the game within reach of the fans who give it life.
For the World Cup to remain football’s greatest celebration, it must belong to the people first.
