The 2026 FIFA World Cup gets underway this week, but controversy is already competing with football for attention. From the exclusion of a leading African referee and concerns over US immigration policies to protests in Mexico City and criticism over ticket prices, FIFA president Gianni Infantino faces mounting pressure ahead of the tournament's opening match.

The 2026 World Cup has come under fire even before kickoff. Criticism is mounting over US President Donald Trump’s politics, high ticket prices, the expansion to 48 teams as well…

The 2026 World Cup has come under fire even before kickoff. Criticism is mounting over US President Donald Trump’s travel bans, high ticket prices, the expansion to 48 teams as…