FIFA President Gianni Infantino is expected to face a wave of questions from journalists as he speaks on the eve of the 2026 World Cup, with several off-field issues casting a shadow over preparations for the tournament.
The press conference, scheduled in Mexico City, comes just before the opening match of the competition and is expected to focus on growing concerns surrounding organisation, accessibility, and political tensions linked to the event.
One of the major talking points ahead of his briefing is the rising criticism over ticket prices, which many fans and stakeholders say could limit attendance and reduce the tournament’s accessibility for ordinary supporters.
There are also concerns about immigration and entry procedures in host countries, with reports suggesting that visa restrictions and border policies have affected some participants and officials involved in the tournament.
Additional scrutiny has been placed on FIFA following reports that certain football officials and staff faced entry complications into the United States, raising questions about coordination between organisers and immigration authorities.
The 2026 World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is the first to feature 48 teams, making it the largest edition in the competition’s history.
While FIFA maintains that preparations are on track, critics argue that the build-up has been overshadowed by administrative and political challenges that risk affecting the smooth running of the event.
Infantino is expected to defend FIFA’s handling of the issues and reassure stakeholders that the tournament will proceed successfully despite the concerns raised.
Attention now turns to his remarks, which are expected to set the tone for the final countdown to kickoff.