FIFA 2026: 8 biggest controversies that have overshadowed the World Cup so far

The 2026 FIFA World Cup has delivered memorable football moments, major upsets and high-quality performances, but the tournament has also been marked by a series of controversies away from the field.

From geopolitical disputes and visa issues to rule changes, player welfare concerns and criticism over ticket prices, the competition has generated widespread debate only weeks after getting underway.

Political tensions cast shadow over tournament

One of the most significant issues surrounding the World Cup has involved the political situation between the United States and Iran.


For the first time in tournament history, a host nation entered the competition while engaged in conflict with one of the participating countries. Iran, which qualified for the World Cup, abandoned plans to establish a training base in the United States and instead chose Mexico as its operational headquarters.

Iranian officials and coach Amir Ghalenoei criticised travel restrictions that required the team to follow strict schedules when travelling to and from match venues.

The dispute intensified after visa-related complications reportedly affected several members of the Iranian delegation. FIFA also faced criticism for declining requests to relocate Iran's matches away from the United States.

Infantino's relationship with Trump draws scrutiny

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has also faced criticism over his relationship with US President Donald Trump.
Observers have questioned whether FIFA has become too closely associated with political interests following Infantino's public appearances alongside Trump and the decision to present him with the FIFA Peace Prize before the tournament.

Human rights organisations and critics have argued that FIFA's actions raise concerns about the governing body's political neutrality.

Somali referee denied entry

Another widely discussed controversy involved Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan.

Artan had been set to become the first Somali official to referee at a World Cup but was reportedly denied entry into the United States. Despite efforts to resolve the issue through diplomatic channels, FIFA ultimately removed him from the tournament roster.

The incident prompted renewed debate over visa regulations and participation at a global sporting event.

Historic red card under new FIFA rule

On the field, one of the tournament's most unusual incidents occurred during Paraguay's 1-0 victory over Turkey.

Paraguay midfielder Miguel Almiron became the first player sent off under FIFA's newly introduced mouth-covering regulation. The dismissal followed an altercation with Turkey defender Mert Muldur, during which Almiron covered his mouth while speaking.

Following a VAR review, referee Ivan Barton issued a straight red card. The rule was introduced to prevent players from concealing potentially abusive language from officials and broadcast cameras.

New tiebreaker rule sparks debate

FIFA has also implemented a significant change to the way group standings are determined.

For the first time, head-to-head results are being prioritised ahead of overall goal difference when teams finish level on points.

Supporters of the change argue that it rewards direct competition between teams, while critics contend that goal difference remains a more accurate measure of overall group-stage performance.

The new system has already complicated qualification scenarios as teams battle for places in the knockout rounds.

Ticket costs draw fan criticism

Supporters have also expressed frustration over the cost of attending matches.

Reports indicated that tickets for the World Cup final were listed for as much as Rs 1.97 crore on FIFA's resale platform, where the governing body reportedly earns commissions from transactions.

Travel expenses have also become a point of concern. Rail fares in New Jersey reportedly increased from approximately Rs 1,100 to more than Rs 8,500 during tournament periods, leading to criticism that the event is becoming less accessible for ordinary fans.

Heat concerns prompt player welfare debate

Weather conditions have emerged as another major talking point.

Before the tournament began, scientists warned that temperatures at some venues could exceed 40 degrees Celsius. In response, FIFA introduced mandatory hydration breaks during matches.

Although intended as a player safety measure, the stoppages have generated debate, with some coaches using them for tactical discussions. Critics argue that the breaks interrupt the natural rhythm of games.

Match ball comes under scrutiny

The official Adidas Trionda match ball has also become a subject of discussion.

Some goalkeeping experts believe its movement characteristics may be contributing to an increased number of long-range goals and goalkeeping mistakes during the tournament.

As the World Cup progresses, the controversies surrounding the competition continue to attract attention alongside the action on the pitch, making the 2026 edition one of the most debated tournaments in FIFA history.