The FIFA World Cup 2026 begins on Thursday with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa at the iconic Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, marking the start of the largest edition of the tournament in history.
The expanded 48-team competition, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will run for nearly six weeks and conclude with the final in New Jersey on July 19. FIFA estimates the tournament could generate a record $13 billion in revenue, reflecting its unprecedented scale and commercial reach.
However, the buildup has been overshadowed by criticism over high ticket prices and visa-related complications affecting teams, officials, and fans. Reports of tickets priced as high as $30,000 have sparked backlash, although FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the pricing structure, stating that lower-cost tickets were also made available.
Infantino said some tickets were priced at around $60, calling it the lowest entry price compared to other major American sports during playoff stages. He also argued that the average ticket price remains below $500, which he described as competitive within the sports industry.
The tournament has also faced controversy linked to immigration policies in the United States. A referee from Somalia, Omar Artan, was reportedly denied entry into the country, with US authorities citing security concerns. FIFA confirmed that Artan would not participate in the tournament.
Infantino acknowledged the incident but said FIFA could not control all external decisions affecting the event. He emphasized that organizing a global tournament under such conditions required cooperation from multiple authorities.
Iran’s participation in the tournament amid ongoing geopolitical tensions has also drawn attention. Infantino described it as a significant achievement for FIFA, noting that concerns had previously been raised about whether the team would be allowed to compete.
US President Donald Trump, who has maintained a close relationship with FIFA leadership, is expected to attend selected matches. He praised the tournament’s organization and said it would be a major success.
On the sporting front, Mexico coach Javier Aguirre said his team was determined to break its poor record in opening matches, while South Africa coach Hugo Broos warned players to handle the pressure of a hostile crowd.
Elsewhere, England, France, and Spain enter the tournament as leading favourites, while defending champions Argentina will rely heavily on Lionel Messi as they aim for another title.
The opening day also features South Korea against the Czech Republic in Guadalajara, as the global football spectacle officially gets underway.