Key facts
- The 2026 World Cup has officially begun in Mexico City.
- The tournament is co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
- FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the event against criticism regarding ticket prices and visa issues.
- High ticket prices, with some exceeding $30,000, were a point of contention.
- Visa denials affected Iranian team officials, fans, and a referee.
- The tournament is expected to generate a record $13 billion in revenue.
- Toronto's stadium upgrades, including temporary seating, received positive reviews.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup has officially commenced, co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, marking the largest tournament in history. The event is projected to generate a record $13 billion in revenue.
However, the buildup has been marred by controversies, including exorbitant ticket prices, with some reaching over $30,000, and visa issues that have prevented key personnel, such as a Somali referee and Iranian team officials, from entering the United States. FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the organization's efforts, stating that the lowest ticket price was $60 and the average was below $500, comparable to American sports playoffs. He also addressed the visa issues, acknowledging limitations in controlling all aspects of entry and highlighting Iran's participation as a diplomatic success.
Infantino specifically credited U.S. President Donald Trump's engagement for enabling the World Cup's organization in the United States, a sentiment echoed by Trump himself, who confirmed his attendance at some matches. Meanwhile, South Africa's coach Hugo Broos prepared his team for the intense atmosphere at the Estadio Azteca, while Mexico's coach Javier Aguirre aimed to break the team's opening match winless streak.
Separately, Toronto's stadium, BMO Field, which underwent a $100 million renovation including 17,000 temporary seats to meet FIFA's 45,000 capacity requirement, has received positive reviews from fans. Attendees praised the sturdiness and safety of the temporary seating, with a recent Toronto FC match drawing a record crowd of over 44,000.