FIFA President Infantino calls for patience amid World Cup controversies
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 10, 2026, 10:05 PM
Last updated Jun 10, 2026
FIFA President Gianni Infantino urged patience as the World Cup prepares to kick off on Thursday in Mexico. His plea follows entry issues for Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was denied access to the U.S. due to background check problems. Infantino emphasized the ongoing challenges surrounding U.S. visa policies for participants and fans, which have drawn criticism amid high ticket prices. He reiterated that FIFA is working behind the scenes to address these issues, acknowledging the complexities involved in processing visas for a large number of accredited individuals. The tournament, featuring matches across Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, is set to last for 38 days.
- •World Cup starts Thursday with Mexico facing South Africa.
- •Omar Abdulkadir Artan cannot participate due to visa issues.
- •Infantino calls for trust as FIFA navigates entry policies.
- •Concerns over high ticket prices and visa denials persist.
- •Tournament spans 38 days across Mexico, U.S., and Canada.
- 10:05 PMYahoo Sports — FIFA President Gianni Infantino pleas for patience, urges people to relax amid backlash
"While he runs the most popular global sporting event, FIFA President Gianni Infantino insists he is no king and must try to broker peace as best he can.
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