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The World Cup visa controversy has become the tournament's most telling issue, with FIFA reportedly violating its own rules by not intervening in denials affecting journalists and fans. Critics question whether the event should be held in a host nation that does not see it as a global celebration.
FIFA is breaking its own precedent by allowing the 2026 World Cup to proceed in a host nation facing visa controversies and political tensions, marking the first time such issues have occurred at a modern tournament.
A video piece highlights that no modern World Cup has faced visa challenges like the current tournament, with fans and participants encountering significant obstacles. The piece documents the scale and impact of these unprecedented issues.
Somali referee Omar Artan says he was subjected to an 11-hour immigration interview before being denied entry to the United States for the World Cup, despite holding what he describes as the 'right papers' and 'right visa'.