2026 FIFA World Cup: When three neighbours but strangers host the world

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, kicked off amid tensions between the three nations despite their shared borders and trade ties. The tournament opens with Mexico facing South Africa at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City, followed by matches in Los Angeles and Toronto. However, the partnership has strained over trade disputes, immigration policies, and U.S. involvement in conflicts involving competing teams. A visa controversy has overshadowed the event, with U.S. authorities denying entry to Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, Africa’s top male referee in 2025, despite his valid visa. Artan, set to become the first Somali to officiate at a World Cup, was barred at Miami International Airport due to unspecified vetting concerns tied to alleged terror associations, though Somali officials disputed the claims. Additional visa rejections have affected Iraqi team staff and fans from countries like Morocco, despite holding valid tickets. Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein faced seven hours of questioning upon arrival, highlighting inconsistencies in U.S. entry policies. FIFA confirmed Artan’s exclusion, deepening concerns about fairness as the tournament begins. The U.S. State Department’s visa freeze for 75 countries, including Brazil, Morocco, and Iran, has further complicated access for fans, though players and accredited staff were exempted. The policy requires assessments of age, health, English proficiency, and potential reliance on public benefits, leaving supporters vulnerable to denial. FIFA had previously assured inclusivity, but the incidents have exposed gaps in coordination between the co-hosts. As the tournament progresses, the focus remains on football, despite the diplomatic and logistical challenges undermining the event’s unity.