MEXICO will launch the opening match of what is being described as the largest FIFA World Cup in history on June 11 (early Friday morning Malaysian time), when the host nation faces South Africa in the tournament opener spanning 104 matches across 16 venues in three countries.
The tournament, which runs until July 19, is projected to generate a record-breaking US$13 billion in revenue, underscoring the unprecedented commercial scale of the expanded competition.
AFP cited today that, however, FIFA has come under mounting global criticism over escalating ticket prices and broader logistical and political controversies surrounding the event.
Tickets for some matches have reportedly reached as high as US$30,000 (RM122,000), drawing backlash from fans and stakeholders over affordability and access.
FIFA president Gianni Infantino defended the pricing structure, arguing that a wide range of ticket categories has been made available, including entry-level prices designed to accommodate ordinary fans.
“I want to say that tickets are as low as US$60 for any American sport in the play-off phase,” he said.
“Our average price, which is below US$500, is once again the lowest average for an American sport. We do not control everything.”
Infantino also declined to directly address the controversy surrounding Somali referee Omar Artan, who was reportedly denied entry into the United States upon arrival in Miami.
FIFA has since confirmed that Artan, whom the US State Department allegedly linked to “terrorist organisations”, will not take part in the tournament.
“It is unfortunate what happened to the referee from Somalia,” Infantino said.
“We do not control everything… sometimes it is good to pause, to pause. We are working and trying to fix everything.”
The FIFA chief also described Iran’s participation in the World Cup, despite ongoing military tensions with the United States, as a significant achievement for global football governance.
“People say Iran should not be allowed to come to the World Cup,” Infantino said.
“There are challenges, it is not easy, but I do not know who else could ensure that under these circumstances, which we cannot influence, Iran can come and play.”
Infantino’s close relationship with US President Donald Trump has also drawn attention, though the FIFA president praised his support in facilitating the tournament.
“Without his commitment and involvement, I think it is as simple as that, it would be impossible to organise a World Cup in the United States,” he said.
Trump, meanwhile, confirmed he plans to attend several matches during the tournament, although he did not provide further details.
“I have already spoken with Gianni… he said there has never been anything close to what is happening,” Trump said, referring to the scale and organisation of the upcoming World Cup. - June 11, 2026
