FIFA Chief Infantino Defends Visa Handling, Ticket Prices on Eve of World Cup
FIFA said it sold more than 6 million tickets and defended $60 starting prices as a way to limit resale markups and fund development.
- On Wednesday in Mexico City, FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the organization's handling of visa controversies and ticket pricing, stating FIFA seeks solutions but cannot override government decisions.
- Immigration challenges surfaced after U.S. authorities denied entry to Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, citing links to "suspected members of terror organizations" for the decision.
- Infantino pointed to Iran's participation despite geopolitical tensions as evidence of FIFA's efforts to navigate complex circumstances, stating, "People were saying Iran couldn't come to the World Cup."
- Defending ticket costs, Infantino noted the average price is about US$500, while the $60 starting price remains the lowest for American playoff sports; FIFA has sold more than 6 million tickets.
- The World Cup kicks off on Thursday at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, the first stadium to host matches at three men's World Cups, with Infantino concluding, "Let the celebration begin.
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kreiszeitung.de
mannheim24.deThe 2026 World Cup has hardly begun and FIFA is again providing for discussions with its ticket policy. Hundreds of thousands of tickets are currently available for resale.
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