Infantino defends World Cup ticket prices and referee denied US entry

sports football world cup

The 2026 men's World Cup has been expanded to 48 teams and is the biggest and most ambitious in the event's history, with matches taking place in Mexico, Canada and the United States.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the tournament's ticket prices on Wednesday, stating that they align with North American sports. Addressing criticism that FIFA was overcharging, Infantino said that if they are doing something wrong, then probably everyone selling tickets in North America is doing something wrong.

Regarding visa issues, Infantino defended the way soccer's governing body has handled the situation, stating that FIFA is working to find solutions but cannot override government decisions. He highlighted efforts to secure entry for Iran's national team and called it unfortunate that Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the United States.

Infantino suggested that people need to chill and relax when visa issues arise rather than creating additional conflict, adding that people should accept that we don't live on the moon.

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