BBC Journalist Challenges FIFA Boss: “Have You Lost Control of the World Cup?”

FIFA President Gianni Infantino faced sharp questioning from a BBC journalist on the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, as concerns mounted over visa restrictions, tournament logistics, and FIFA’s ability to manage the competition.

During a press conference in Mexico City, the journalist asked Infantino whether he was “embarrassed” by recent developments surrounding the tournament and whether FIFA had effectively “lost control” of the World Cup. The question came amid controversy over the denial of entry to Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan and reported visa issues affecting members of Iran’s support staff.

Responding to the criticism, Infantino defended FIFA’s position, arguing that the organization cannot dictate immigration policies to sovereign governments.

“We are not the kings of the world who can rule over governments and police forces,” the FIFA president said, adding that FIFA remains a sports organization that works to find solutions but does not control national border policies.

The FIFA chief also pushed back against claims that the governing body had lost control of the tournament, drawing comparisons with future competitions and questioning whether it would be appropriate for FIFA to instruct governments on who should be allowed into their countries.

The controversy comes as the 2026 World Cup, jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, prepares to kick off as the largest tournament in FIFA history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. While FIFA has celebrated record ticket sales and global interest, critics have raised concerns over immigration policies, accessibility, and the broader political challenges surrounding the event.

Despite the scrutiny, Infantino urged critics to focus on the football, insisting that FIFA has worked closely with host nations to ensure a successful tournament and describing the World Cup as a celebration that brings people together from around the globe.