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The Football Supporters’ Association (FSA) has urged FIFA president Gianni Infantino to prioritize affordable ticketing for the 2026 World Cup instead of making what they describe as “cheap jokes” about British supporters. Infantino, speaking at the World Economic Forum in Switzerland, highlighted that it was a notable milestone that no British fans were arrested during the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. He remarked that the tournament saw “virtually no incidents” and emphasized the unprecedented nature of the fact that no British nationals faced arrest, calling it “really, really special.”
Addressing various issues surrounding the upcoming 2026 World Cup, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, Infantino discussed concerns such as rising ticket prices, potential visa complications for fans, and domestic tensions within the US. Despite criticism aimed at the organization of the Qatar World Cup, Infantino defended FIFA’s approach, reiterating his stance on the ticket costs for the next tournament. The prices have been heavily criticized by the FSA, with group stage tickets reportedly costing up to three times more than those in Qatar, and final tickets in New Jersey reaching £3,119.
In response to these complaints, FIFA introduced a limited number of lower-priced tickets at $60 (£45) for all 104 matches. Infantino acknowledged in Davos that tickets were not inexpensive and admitted to facing significant criticism, particularly from Germany and England. Nevertheless, he justified the pricing by pointing out the high demand from these countries and the United States, asserting that “every match will be sold out.” However, FIFA has yet to disclose specific data on ticket demand across different matches and seating categories.
Meanwhile, concerns are emerging within European football circles about US President Donald Trump’s reported interest in acquiring Greenland, a largely self-governing Danish territory. Discussions among European football officials are said to be underway, exploring possible responses to the political development. While European football authorities like UEFA and the Football Association have been contacted for comments, the wider political context includes controversies such as the Trump administration’s restrictive immigration policies and recent geopolitical events. Despite these tensions, Infantino remains optimistic, predicting that the 2026 World Cup will serve as “the greatest celebration of humanity.” However, questions remain over whether fans from all qualifying countries will be able to attend, as US travel bans include several nations participating in the tournament. While priority visa appointments are available to ticket holders, the US State Department has clarified that certain exceptions do not apply to fans, meaning they may still face challenges in obtaining visas. Infantino dismissed concerns about visa denial, stating that it is “not true” fans from specific countries will be barred from entry
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