League: MLS Sport: Soccer Country: United States Category: Transactions

Wyland files $25 million lawsuit over mural cover-up for World Cup

The Guardian Sport • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 8, 2026, 11:00 AM

Last updated Jun 8, 2026

Wyland files $25 million lawsuit over mural cover-up for World Cup

Summary

Artist Robert Wyland has initiated a $25 million lawsuit against FIFA after his mural depicting ocean life was covered up as part of a World Cup promotion. Wyland, known for his iconic “whaling walls,” claims the action was unjust and seeks retribution. The lawsuit arises from a dispute over artistic rights and the suppression of his work, which has been a prominent feature in various cities. Wyland's legal action highlights potential issues surrounding artist representation during large promotional events.

Source Links

The Guardian Sport

Key Details

•Robert Wyland's mural was covered for World Cup promotion.
•He seeks $25 million in damages from FIFA.
•Wyland is known for his iconic ocean-themed murals.
•Dispute relates to artistic rights and representation.

Latest Updates

11:00 AMThe Guardian Sport — ‘They picked the wrong artist’: How a Dallas mural cover-up led to a $25m lawsuit against Fifa

What they're saying

"
Robert Wyland’s depiction of ocean life was covered up for a World Cup promotion – now he wants retribution • World Cup newsletter | Daily podcast | Get the app Florida-based artist Robert Wyland – he’s almost always referred to as simply “Wyland” – was busy in his studio in the Florida Keys a few weeks ago doing what he always does: painting or sculpting vibrant, vivid scenes of aquatic life. Then his assistant walked in. Wyland, 69, has earned international acclaim for his “whaling walls,” a series of larger-than-life murals across the United States and abroad, many which have become iconic parts of the fabric of American cities. Peacefully depicting the largest mammals on earth on warehouses and office buildings, the murals’ whales lumber along gracefully, offering city goers a moment or two of tranquillity amid chaos. Continue reading...
— The Guardian Sportby Pablo Iglesias Maurer

Related Teams & Leagues

FC Dallas MLS Soccer

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External links

The Guardian SportJun 8, 2026, 11:00 AM
‘They picked the wrong artist’: How a Dallas mural cover-up led to a $25m lawsuit against Fifa
Robert Wyland’s depiction of ocean life was covered up for a World Cup promotion – now he wants retribution • World Cup newsletter | Daily podcast | Get the app Florida-based artist Robert Wyland – he’s almost always referred to as simply “Wyland” – was busy in his studio in the Florida Keys a few weeks ago doing what he always does: painting or sculpting vibrant, vivid scenes of aquatic life. Then his assistant walked in. Wyland, 69, has earned international acclaim for his “whaling walls,” a series of larger-than-life murals across the United States and abroad, many which have become iconic parts of the fabric of American cities. Peacefully depicting the largest mammals on earth on warehouses and office buildings, the murals’ whales lumber along gracefully, offering city goers a moment or two of tranquillity amid chaos. Continue reading...

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