Between Immigration Policy and the Magic of Soccer

Infantino Defends the 2026 World Cup: Between Migration Policy and the Magic of Soccer

The president of FIFA avoids criticism in the run-up to an event marked by tension and hope.

The air in Mexico City, one day before the opening whistle of the 2026 World Cup, was charged with expectation and, of course, controversy. Gianni Infantinothe top leader of world football, faced intense scrutiny, answering questions that ranged between diplomacy and politics, especially in the face of the shadows cast by the immigration policies of USA. These measures have been an obstacle for many fans who wanted to follow their teams.

Faced with the uncomfortable questions, Infantino did not avoid defending his management and his relationship with the US authorities. “I have an excellent relationship with President Trump, I am very happy about it,” he declared firmly. “I met him during his first term and we have been working very closely in this second. Without his commitment and involvement, I think it would have been impossible to organize a World Cup in the United States. It's that simple.” A few words that sought to dispel doubts about the viability and inclusive spirit of the tournament.

One of the points that Infantino conveyed the most satisfaction was the confirmation of the participation of Iran. “I'm very happy. I went to see them in Türkiye in March of this year, people said I couldn't come, but I promised them they would,” he emphasized. “If I have to go by bus to Tehran and bring them here, I will do it,” he added, underlining the personal effort to ensure the presence of all the qualified teams.

From the iconic Azteca Stadium, one day before the official start, Infantino shared his joy. “It is a moment of joy, of celebration (…) I am very happy to see this ball rolling in a few hours,” he commented at a press conference. The 2026 World Cup, a tripartite edition organized by Mexico, Canada and the United States, was shaping up to be an event of great magnitude, seeking to overcome adversity and unite the world through sport.

The top leader did not spare his praise for the trophy that everyone longs for. “This is the most iconic trophy in the world. The most incredible. A trophy that allows people to dream,” he said, appealing to the emotion and aspiration that the World Cup represents.

In a global context marked by conflicts and crises, Infantino defended the unifying role of football. “I believe in the magic and power of the soccer ball, this World Cup trophy and these games. Although there are bad people, our world needs positive emotion,” he said. “Football can help, it can make people forget their reality for a while,” he added, highlighting sport's ability to offer respite and a meeting point.

The opening match, which will pit Mexico against South Africa this Thursday, will kick off what Infantino described as “one of the most spectacular in history.” The diversity of teams with the potential to win the title predicts a close competition. However, the FIFA president recalled that the true driving force of the tournament is its protagonists. “It is the fans, of course, who make the World Cup what it is,” he said.

Finally, Infantino extended his gratitude to the leaders of the host countries: the president of Mexico, Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo; the American president, donald trump; and the Prime Minister of Canada, Mark Carney. Their support, according to the FIFA president, has been essential to making this World Cup dream come true.

Frequently Asked Questions about the 2026 World Cup

• Who is Gianni Infantino?
  Gianni Infantino is the current president of FIFA, the world's governing body for football.
• Which countries organize the 2026 World Cup?
  The 2026 World Cup is organized jointly by Mexico, Canada and USA.
• What controversies surrounded the organization of the World Cup?
  Mainly, United States immigration policies generated concern about the possible exclusion of fans.
• Which team confirmed its participation after overcoming obstacles?
  Iran He confirmed his participation after personal efforts from the FIFA president.
• What is the opening match of the tournament?
  The opening match will be between Mexico and South Africa.
• What importance does FIFA give to the role of fans?
  FIFA considers the fans to be the true architects of the World Cup, since they are the ones who give it its essence.
• What is expected from this edition of the World Cup?
  It is expected to be one of the most spectacular editions in history, with multiple contenders for the title.
• What role does football play in times of crisis?
  FIFA believes that football has the ability to bring people together, offer positive emotion and allow difficulties to be temporarily forgotten.

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