World Cup 2026 is yet to kick off. So why is there so much chaos? The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, is facing significant controversy even before its start date. Issues include US entry bans affecting participants like referees and team members, and difficulties for fans from various regions. Additionally, allegations of outrageously high ticket prices and artificial scarcity have drawn criticism from attorneys general and consumer advocates.

• The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins on June 11 and will feature a record 48 teams.
• The tournament is co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, with matches held in 16 North American cities.
• US immigration controls and travel restrictions have impacted participants, including a Somali referee denied entry and members of Iraq’s national team facing detention.
• Iran’s participation has been complicated by visa delays and revoked ticket allocations, leading the team to change its base.
• Fans from Africa, the Middle East, and Latin America report difficulties with US entry requirements, including visa delays and enhanced screening.
• Allegations of “impossibly high” ticket prices, artificial scarcity, and misleading information have led to scrutiny from New York and New Jersey attorneys general.
• Consumer advocates argue that soaring ticket prices are making the tournament inaccessible to ordinary fans, with group-stage tickets costing thousands of dollars.