MEXICO CITY:The expanded 48-team World Cup will officially kick off tonight with the opening match between South Africa and co-host Mexico at the historic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the start of a tournament already surrounded by controversy over ticket prices, visa restrictions, and political sensitivities.
The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada, will run for around seven weeks, with the final scheduled for July 19 in New Jersey.
FIFA says this edition is the largest World Cup in history, with an estimated revenue of around $13 billion expected from the event. However, criticism over soaring ticket prices has intensified even before kickoff, alongside reports of visa-related challenges for players, referees and fans due to strict immigration policies in the United States.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the tournament during the opening ceremony in Mexico City, rejecting criticism over ticket pricing. He said the tournament offers a wide range of ticket categories, with some seats priced as low as $60, while premium tickets can reach up to $30,000.
Infantino argued that the average ticket price remains below $500, calling it relatively affordable compared to other major sporting events in the United States.
Addressing visa concerns, Infantino described the case of Somali referee Omar Artan as “unfortunate” after he was reportedly denied entry into the United States over alleged security concerns linked to contacts with individuals associated with a terrorist organization. FIFA later confirmed he would not participate in the tournament.
He also acknowledged that FIFA does not have full control over visa and security decisions, urging that not all issues can be resolved through immediate political reactions.
The FIFA chief also commented on Iran’s participation in the tournament, saying that despite ongoing political and military tensions with the United States, Iran’s ability to compete was an achievement for FIFA and international football.
His relationship with US President Donald Trump has also drawn attention, with Infantino suggesting that hosting the World Cup in the United States would have been difficult without Trump’s support. Trump has indicated plans to attend some matches.
On the field, attention is on the opening clash at the 85,000-seat Estadio Azteca, where South Africa faces host nation Mexico. South Africa coach Hugo Broos has urged his players to stay focused amid the pressure of a loud home crowd.
Mexico, meanwhile, is seeking its first-ever win in a World Cup opening match after failing in seven previous attempts. Coach Javier Aguirre said the team is motivated to change that record.
The second opening-day match will see South Korea face the Czech Republic in Guadalajara. Spain, France and England are considered among the leading contenders, while defending champions Argentina, led by captain Lionel Messi, aim to retain the title.
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