The U.S. government has played a significant role in the history of FIFA, from its dismantling to its reconstruction, thereby increasing its political influence. Meanwhile, Palestinian soccer leadership faced visa issues, with the head of the Palestinian soccer federation criticizing FIFA President Gianni Infantino for a lack of coordination that prevented 15 federation members from obtaining U.S. visas for the World Cup. Separately, Pope Leo announced his support for the U.S. soccer team during the World Cup. An author also recounted missing their first World Cup match due to unforeseen circumstances.
The U.S. government has been instrumental in the history of FIFA, having been involved in both the dismantling and subsequent reconstruction of the organization. This involvement has reportedly led to an increase in FIFA's political influence. In a separate development concerning the World Cup, the head of the Palestinian soccer federation, Mahdi Mohammad Nabi, has criticized FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Nabi cited a 'lack of coordination' as the reason 15 members of the Iranian soccer federation were denied U.S. visas, which disrupted the team's preparation for the World Cup. The author of one piece recounts personal circumstances that led to missing their first World Cup match. In a notable statement of support, Pope Leo, the first U.S. leader of the Catholic Church, declared he will back the U.S. soccer team during the upcoming World Cup. Pope Leo, who hails from the Chicago suburbs, made this announcement while traveling to Madrid.