The 2026 World Cup is in danger of becoming more controversial than the previous editions in Russia and Qatar. The tournament, which was supposed to bring together the best of the best in football, is now facing a crisis of control and governance. The case of Omar Artan, a top African referee, is a stark example of this. Artan, who was set to officiate at the World Cup, was denied entry to the United States, the host country, after an 11-hour grilling by immigration officials. This incident raises questions about the control of FIFA over the tournament and the role of the US government in shaping the event. The US administration's immigration policies, particularly those targeting Muslim-majority countries, have created a hostile environment for fans, officials, and players. The situation is further complicated by the presence of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at stadiums and the potential impact on fans. The astronomical cost of tickets, a subpoena over ticket practices, criticism of FIFA over hotel bookings and transport prices, and the controversy surrounding the FIFA Peace Prize awarded to Donald Trump have all contributed to the growing tension. The US government's focus on immigration has placed the World Cup in a difficult position, with FIFA struggling to maintain control over the event. The incident involving Artan is a clear indication of the challenges facing the tournament, and it remains to be seen how FIFA will navigate this crisis and ensure a successful and fair World Cup.
