Ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup kickoff, multiple outlets describe both record-setting expectations for the tournament and a troubled lead-up connected to U.S. hosting and FIFA’s preparations. Organizers project very high global reach, with millions of visitors across 16 host cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States, and revenue estimates in the tens of billions. At the same time, ticketing and travel access concerns are reported: outlets cite high ticket prices, remaining gaps in FIFA’s ticket inventory, and canceled or changed hotel arrangements tied to weaker-than-expected visitor numbers.

Coverage also highlights reported U.S. immigration and entry barriers affecting teams, officials, and fans from countries facing U.S. restrictions, alongside broader criticism from human-rights and civil-society groups. Reported cases include visa denials and delayed or denied entry for specific individuals (including a Somali referee) and restrictions on Iranian and other travelers. The articles also say FIFA has provided limited clarity on how security and immigration enforcement will function at venues.

FIFA and the host government are described as emphasizing that the tournament is open to visitors, while critics argue the event is being used for U.S. political messaging and that FIFA has not delivered adequate human-rights safeguards.