FIFA VP Dismisses Security Concerns Ahead of 2026 World Cup

FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani has downplayed widespread security and political concerns surrounding the 2026 World Cup, insisting that such issues have always accompanied the tournament.

Speaking in Atlanta, Montagliani said, “Every World Cup has had geopolitical issues… once the first ball is kicked, people focus on the game.” The tournament, hosted jointly by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has faced scrutiny due to Middle East conflicts, U.S. immigration policies, and gang violence in Mexico.

Montagliani emphasized that FIFA is coordinating closely with local governments to ensure fan safety, noting that over 100,000 security personnel will be deployed in Mexico. “At the end of the day, it’s all about football,” he added.

Meanwhile, teams and players are preparing amid uncertainties: New Zealand is open to moving its opener against Iran out of the U.S., while Italy faces pressure in the playoffs to end a 12-year World Cup absence. Underdogs, including DR Congo and Iraq, also battle for the final tournament spots in Mexico.

Written by Adeyemi Adewale