FIFA President Gianni Infantino strongly dismissed growing political and logistical controversies on the eve of the 2026 World Cup opening match at the Estadio Azteca.
Addressing the media in Mexico City, Infantino urged critics to “chill and relax” despite major border issues disrupting multiple delegations.
The tournament build-up has been heavily fractured by intense United States immigration crackdowns, creating deep diplomatic friction for several visiting nations.
Somali referee Omar Artan, set to make history, was completely denied a visa following sudden US State Department security interventions.
Meanwhile, high-profile Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein faced rigorous interrogation for seven hours at a Chicago airport before gaining entry.
Ongoing geopolitical hostilities between the US and Iran have further pushed the Iranian national team to abandon their Arizona camp.
The Iranian squad has since established a temporary training base in Tijuana, Mexico, to avoid extended stays on American soil.
Furthermore, the Iranian Football Federation sharply condemned US authorities after its official match ticket allocations were abruptly cancelled.
Infantino fiercely defended US President Donald Trump, asserting that executing this massive 48-team tournament would be impossible without him.
The global football showcase officially begins on Thursday evening with co-hosts Mexico taking on South Africa in Mexico City.