By Our Correspondent
National News – Widespread political and security worries ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada are being exaggerated, FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani stated Wednesday.
Addressing the Business of Soccer conference in Atlanta, Montagliani reassured fans that past World Cups have faced similar geopolitical tensions, citing Argentina’s 1978 tournament during a brutal military dictatorship as an example.
Montagliani, who leads CONCACAF, explained that concerns over immigration policies, gang violence in Mexico, and ongoing conflicts in the Middle East have drawn media attention.
Iran has announced it will skip matches in the US after former President Donald Trump warned Iranian players could face risks, while fans from multiple countries reported difficulties obtaining visas.
Despite these challenges, Montagliani emphasized that such issues are common in large-scale tournaments.
“The reality of every World Cup — there are always geopolitical issues,” he said.
“Right now it’s magnified due to social media and intense media coverage, but once the first ball is kicked on June 11, fans focus on the game itself.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has faced scrutiny for his close ties with Trump, including presenting him with the FIFA Peace Prize during last December’s World Cup draw.
Montagliani added that FIFA prioritizes the safety and enjoyment of fans. “Our main goal is to ensure top-notch security and maintain strong relations with the federal governments of Canada, the US, and Mexico,” he said. “Once the tournament begins, it’s all about football.”
FIFA continues to coordinate with host nations to manage logistical challenges, fan safety, and diplomatic concerns, ensuring a smooth tournament experience for players and spectators alike.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, running across three North American countries, is expected to draw millions of fans worldwide despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, visa hurdles, and security concerns, underscoring the global importance of the tournament.
