The 2026 World Cup was meant to be football’s biggest and most inclusive celebration.
Instead, months before kickoff, the tournament has become embroiled in controversy, with visa complications, border restrictions, soaring travel costs and growing frustration among fans threatening to overshadow the spectacle.
At the heart of the controversy is co-host nation the United States.
Previous World Cup hosts took measures to ease travel concerns for participants and supporters. Brazil relaxed visa requirements in 2014, while Russia and Qatar introduced fan identification systems that doubled as entry permits.
This time, however, the situation has proven far more complicated.
Under the administration of US President Donald Trump, tighter immigration policies and border controls have created significant challenges for players, officials, referees and supporters travelling to the tournament.
Somalia’s Historic Referee Dream Cut Short
One of the most controversial incidents involves Omar Artan, who was selected as one of the 52 match officials for the World Cup.
Artan was set to become the first Somali referee in World Cup history but was reportedly denied entry upon arriving in Miami.
FIFA confirmed that he would be unable to participate in training or officiating duties but stressed that immigration decisions remain the responsibility of the host nation.
Iran Faces Major Travel Obstacles
The difficulties extend beyond match officials.
According to reports from Iran, at least 15 members of the national team’s support staff and delegation were denied visas by US authorities.
Iranian football officials have also alleged that restrictions were placed on ticket allocations for their supporters, raising concerns about fan access during the tournament.
National team coach Amir Ghalenoei voiced his disappointment over the situation.
“We are upset about this behaviour,” he said.
“It has certainly never happened before.”
The ongoing visa challenges have forced Iran to establish their training base in Tijuana, with players expected to travel into the United States only for matches before returning to Mexico afterwards.
As preparations continue, the focus on football is increasingly being overshadowed by concerns surrounding access, logistics and diplomacy, leaving FIFA facing mounting questions over whether the world’s biggest sporting event can proceed without further disruption.
