The FIFA World Cup in North America is facing a boycott due to the US's human rights violations and wars abroad, and is facing criticism for its aggression against Cuba, Iran, and Venezuela

Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub says he has been denied a visa to enter the United States for the FIFA World Cup, highlighting concerns over restrictions affecting Palestinian officials amid ongoing tensions in West Asia.

The United States is obligated to adhere to FIFA regulations regarding the issuance of visas, Iranian national team manager Mehdi Mohammadnabi said, as ongoing visa denials disrupt Team Melli's preparations for the 2026 World Cup.

The mother of seven-year-old son Makan Nasiri, killed in a US-Israeli bombing of a school in Minab, has written a letter to FIFA president Gianni Infantino as the 2026 World Cup begins.

FIFA's mandate has collapsed at the US-hosted 2026 World Cup as visa denials, deportations, and exclusion – targeting Iran, African and Muslim-majority countries – revealing that geopolitics, not merit, now determines access.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup opened Thursday with a glittering ceremony at Mexico City's Estadio Azteca, followed by the hosts defeating South Africa 2-0 in the opening match.

A series of visa denials, delays, and invasive security checks targeting Asian and African teams, officials, and fans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup smacks of discriminatory treatment and raises questions about the US as host.