Key facts
- FIFA projects $8.9 billion in revenue from the expanded 48-team World Cup.
- FIFA revenues are expected to rise 73% from the previous cycle.
- Iran's World Cup administrative staff have reportedly not been granted U.S. visas.
- Iran's World Cup team moved its base from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, due to visa issues.
- The U.S. will not permit individuals linked to the IRGC to join the Iranian delegation.
- Iran will play its final World Cup warm-up match behind closed doors.
- South Africa's Rugby World Cup team faced a departure delay due to travel document issues.
- An Iraqi World Cup player was questioned for seven hours at a U.S. airport.
- FIFA has reinvested $5 billion into the sport since 2016.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has overseen the expansion of the World Cup to 48 teams and 104 matches, projecting $8.9 billion in revenue. This expansion comes amid ongoing corruption probes and criticisms of FIFA's control. Revenues are expected to rise 73% from the previous cycle, with $5 billion reinvested into the sport since 2016.
In parallel, Iran's national football team is navigating significant geopolitical challenges en route to the World Cup. Members of the administrative staff have reportedly not been granted U.S. visas, prompting the team to move its base from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico. While the footballers have received their visas, some support staff face denial, and efforts are ongoing to secure their entry. The U.S. has indicated it will not permit individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) to join the delegation. Consequently, Iran will play its final World Cup warm-up match behind closed doors due to ongoing conflict and high tensions with the U.S.
Adding to travel complexities, South Africa's Rugby World Cup team experienced a departure delay for France due to administrative issues with their travel documents. Furthermore, an Iraqi national football player, who scored the decisive goal for his team's World Cup qualification, was questioned for seven hours at a U.S. airport. No immediate comment has been issued by the Iraqi Football Association or the player regarding the airport incident.
FIFA's revenue projections highlight a substantial financial growth under Infantino's leadership, with significant reinvestment planned for the sport. The geopolitical climate, however, is creating logistical challenges for national teams participating in major international sporting events, impacting travel and preparation.