FIFA president Gianni Infantino faced a barrage of criticism on the eve of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico City. He told reporters he was “relaxed” and urged detractors to “chill,” while defending the organization’s handling of record ticket prices, visa hurdles and the controversy surrounding Iran’s team. The tone signaled a willingness to confront legal scrutiny and public backlash.

U.S. and New York attorneys general have opened investigations into whether FIFA misled fans with ticket prices up to ten times higher than the 2022 tournament. Infantino, whose $6 million salary places him among the sport’s highest‑paid executives, argued the board consulted lawyers before sales. He also highlighted that most revenue funds global soccer development, a point aimed at deflecting profit‑centric criticism.

The saga intensified after Somali referee Omar Artan was detained at a U.S. airport and sent back to Turkey, prompting Infantino to express sympathy but maintain that entry issues lie beyond FIFA’s control. With Iran’s team finally receiving visas after weeks of uncertainty, the organization secured participation but exposed vulnerabilities that could pressure sponsors and broadcasters ahead of the opening match.