×

Canadian official backs up report that Iranian FA chief was denied entry for FIFA event

Taj, who is also a vice president of Asia’s football body, detailed on Friday the problems with Canadian authorities though he said he was not deported.

“In Canada they asked us, ‘Are you members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps?’ We told them, ‘In Iran, 90 million of us are IRGC,’” Taj was reported as saying in Iranian media.

After being detained for two hours at Toronto airport, the Iran football delegation which had arrived from Istanbul was told it could continue the journey.

“There was some discussion and he said, ‘It’s up to you,’ and then we decided as a group to go back” to Istanbul, Taj said. “They did not officially deport us, there is nothing labeled as deportation in our file, but in practice it was like that.”

Taj had a valid visa to enter Canada after he was denied one by the U.S. to attend the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 5. At that event, Infantino presented Trump with the first FIFA Peace Prize.

Iran has World Cup group games against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, respectively, from June 15-26. The first two games are at the NFL stadium of the Los Angeles Rams and the third is at the Seattle Seahawks’ stadium.

If Iran advances as runner-up in its group, the team could face the United States in the round of 32 at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium on July 3.

The Iranian football league shut down after the war started and is not due to resume before the World Cup. The squad played two warmup games in March at a training camp in Antalya, Turkey, where it could return this month to prepare for the World Cup that opens on June 11.

Published on May 02, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #football #officials #meet #FIFA #Zurich #plan #games"> FIFA World Cup 2026 — Iran football officials to meet FIFA in Zurich and plan for games in US Iranian football officials are set to meet soon with FIFA in Zurich about their World Cup games in the United States in June.Iran’s top football official Mehdi Taj said on Friday “we have many issues to discuss” on his return home from Canada where he failed to attend FIFA’s annual congress held on Thursday in Vancouver.FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström has invited an Iranian delegation to its headquarters by a May 20 deadline, a person familiar with the proposal told The Associated Press on Friday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the ongoing sensitivity of the issue.That target date in Zurich is three weeks before the Iran squad is due in the U.S., staying at a training base in Tucson, Arizona, to prepare for three group games in Inglewood, California and Seattle.“Our position is that we will soon have a meeting with FIFA,” Taj told Iranian media on Friday.Iran is an Asian football power but its ability and willingness to come to the World Cup has been questioned since the U.S. and Israel launched military attacks on February 28. The tournament is being co-hosted by Canada and Mexico,On Thursday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino opened his keynote speech to global football leaders — with only Iran missing of the 211 member federations — insisting again that Iran will come and play as scheduled in the U.S.At the White House later Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed his support for Iran’s team, adding: “If Gianni said it, I’m OK.”Trump and Infantino have closely allied over the World Cup preparations which has challenges, beyond Iran with fans from several African countries, over granting entry visas and security concerns.Taj and two more Iran officials had issues this week on landing in Toronto en route to Vancouver where they were expected at the FIFA annual meeting.ALSO READ | Canadian official backs up report that Iranian FA chief was denied entry for FIFA eventTaj, who is also a vice president of Asia’s football body, detailed on Friday the problems with Canadian authorities though he said he was not deported.“In Canada they asked us, ‘Are you members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps?’ We told them, ‘In Iran, 90 million of us are IRGC,’” Taj was reported as saying in Iranian media.After being detained for two hours at Toronto airport, the Iran football delegation which had arrived from Istanbul was told it could continue the journey.“There was some discussion and he said, ‘It’s up to you,’ and then we decided as a group to go back” to Istanbul, Taj said. “They did not officially deport us, there is nothing labeled as deportation in our file, but in practice it was like that.”Taj had a valid visa to enter Canada after he was denied one by the U.S. to attend the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 5. At that event, Infantino presented Trump with the first FIFA Peace Prize.Iran has World Cup group games against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, respectively, from June 15-26. The first two games are at the NFL stadium of the Los Angeles Rams and the third is at the Seattle Seahawks’ stadium.If Iran advances as runner-up in its group, the team could face the United States in the round of 32 at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium on July 3.The Iranian football league shut down after the war started and is not due to resume before the World Cup. The squad played two warmup games in March at a training camp in Antalya, Turkey, where it could return this month to prepare for the World Cup that opens on June 11.Published on May 02, 2026 #FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #football #officials #meet #FIFA #Zurich #plan #games
Sports news

Canadian official backs up report that Iranian FA chief was denied entry for FIFA event

Taj, who is also a vice president of Asia’s football body, detailed on Friday the problems with Canadian authorities though he said he was not deported.

“In Canada they asked us, ‘Are you members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps?’ We told them, ‘In Iran, 90 million of us are IRGC,’” Taj was reported as saying in Iranian media.

After being detained for two hours at Toronto airport, the Iran football delegation which had arrived from Istanbul was told it could continue the journey.

“There was some discussion and he said, ‘It’s up to you,’ and then we decided as a group to go back” to Istanbul, Taj said. “They did not officially deport us, there is nothing labeled as deportation in our file, but in practice it was like that.”

Taj had a valid visa to enter Canada after he was denied one by the U.S. to attend the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 5. At that event, Infantino presented Trump with the first FIFA Peace Prize.

Iran has World Cup group games against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, respectively, from June 15-26. The first two games are at the NFL stadium of the Los Angeles Rams and the third is at the Seattle Seahawks’ stadium.

If Iran advances as runner-up in its group, the team could face the United States in the round of 32 at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium on July 3.

The Iranian football league shut down after the war started and is not due to resume before the World Cup. The squad played two warmup games in March at a training camp in Antalya, Turkey, where it could return this month to prepare for the World Cup that opens on June 11.

Published on May 02, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #football #officials #meet #FIFA #Zurich #plan #games">FIFA World Cup 2026 — Iran football officials to meet FIFA in Zurich and plan for games in US

Iranian football officials are set to meet soon with FIFA in Zurich about their World Cup games in the United States in June.

Iran’s top football official Mehdi Taj said on Friday “we have many issues to discuss” on his return home from Canada where he failed to attend FIFA’s annual congress held on Thursday in Vancouver.

FIFA secretary general Mattias Grafström has invited an Iranian delegation to its headquarters by a May 20 deadline, a person familiar with the proposal told The Associated Press on Friday. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because of the ongoing sensitivity of the issue.

That target date in Zurich is three weeks before the Iran squad is due in the U.S., staying at a training base in Tucson, Arizona, to prepare for three group games in Inglewood, California and Seattle.

“Our position is that we will soon have a meeting with FIFA,” Taj told Iranian media on Friday.

Iran is an Asian football power but its ability and willingness to come to the World Cup has been questioned since the U.S. and Israel launched military attacks on February 28. The tournament is being co-hosted by Canada and Mexico,

On Thursday, FIFA President Gianni Infantino opened his keynote speech to global football leaders — with only Iran missing of the 211 member federations — insisting again that Iran will come and play as scheduled in the U.S.

At the White House later Thursday, U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed his support for Iran’s team, adding: “If Gianni said it, I’m OK.”

Trump and Infantino have closely allied over the World Cup preparations which has challenges, beyond Iran with fans from several African countries, over granting entry visas and security concerns.

Taj and two more Iran officials had issues this week on landing in Toronto en route to Vancouver where they were expected at the FIFA annual meeting.

ALSO READ | Canadian official backs up report that Iranian FA chief was denied entry for FIFA event

Taj, who is also a vice president of Asia’s football body, detailed on Friday the problems with Canadian authorities though he said he was not deported.

“In Canada they asked us, ‘Are you members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps?’ We told them, ‘In Iran, 90 million of us are IRGC,’” Taj was reported as saying in Iranian media.

After being detained for two hours at Toronto airport, the Iran football delegation which had arrived from Istanbul was told it could continue the journey.

“There was some discussion and he said, ‘It’s up to you,’ and then we decided as a group to go back” to Istanbul, Taj said. “They did not officially deport us, there is nothing labeled as deportation in our file, but in practice it was like that.”

Taj had a valid visa to enter Canada after he was denied one by the U.S. to attend the World Cup draw in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 5. At that event, Infantino presented Trump with the first FIFA Peace Prize.

Iran has World Cup group games against New Zealand, Belgium and Egypt, respectively, from June 15-26. The first two games are at the NFL stadium of the Los Angeles Rams and the third is at the Seattle Seahawks’ stadium.

If Iran advances as runner-up in its group, the team could face the United States in the round of 32 at the Dallas Cowboys’ stadium on July 3.

The Iranian football league shut down after the war started and is not due to resume before the World Cup. The squad played two warmup games in March at a training camp in Antalya, Turkey, where it could return this month to prepare for the World Cup that opens on June 11.

Published on May 02, 2026

#FIFA #World #Cup #Iran #football #officials #meet #FIFA #Zurich #plan #games

Iranian football officials are set to meet soon with FIFA in Zurich about their World…

Sports news

FIFA President Gianni Infantino said demand ​for tickets to the 2026 World Cup ‌had reached…

Protesters urge FIFA to ban Iran from World Cup

“Right now there’s already a crisis ⁠and there’s a big fear that it’s going to get even worse,” she said.

The marchers were joined by hotel workers ‌from Unite Here Local 40 outside the Pan Pacific Hotel, where FIFA Congress delegates were reportedly staying.

Union spokesperson Michelle Travis said soaring hotel prices are not resulting in better pay for workers, many of whom must commute long distances because they cannot afford to live in Vancouver.

The protesters called ‌for FIFA and event organisers to ensure the World Cup does not ​worsen homelessness, displacement, or worker hardship – and suggested a “FIFA dividend” to return money to affected communities.

“Folks ⁠love FIFA, they love soccer, but they also want to make ⁠sure that these events aren’t pushing people out, whether they work in the hotels, whether they’re on ‌the streets,” she said.

“They want to see FIFA contribute if they’re going to be here.”

Vancouver hosts the first of ​its seven World Cup matches on June 13.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Advocates #homeless #hotel #workers #protest #FIFA #Congress #Vancouver"> Advocates for homeless, hotel workers protest outside FIFA Congress in Vancouver Homelessness ‌advocates and hotel workers rallied outside the FIFA ​Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, criticising the city’s ⁠preparations for the upcoming World Cup and warning that vulnerable residents and workers are being ignored.Protesters from an anti-FIFA coalition said a ‌displacement of homeless people had already begun, citing street sweeps, restrictions on tents and the loss of ‌belongings.They demanded no police sweeps of encampments or World ‌Cup-related ⁠escalations and criticised Vancouver’s February human-rights action plan ⁠related to the tournament as weak and lacking firm commitments.“There’s a lot of anxiety and fear in the community about what’s going to happen ​with the FIFA games,” Fiona ‌York, a community advocate, told Reuters.York said many unhoused residents fear a repeat of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, when people remember intensified displacement and policing. She argued that ‌money being spent on the tournament could instead support ​shelters, tiny homes, or safe places for people living in vehicles.ALSO READ | Protesters urge FIFA to ban Iran from World Cup“Right now there’s already a crisis ⁠and there’s a big fear that it’s going to get even worse,” she said.The marchers were joined by hotel workers ‌from Unite Here Local 40 outside the Pan Pacific Hotel, where FIFA Congress delegates were reportedly staying.Union spokesperson Michelle Travis said soaring hotel prices are not resulting in better pay for workers, many of whom must commute long distances because they cannot afford to live in Vancouver.The protesters called ‌for FIFA and event organisers to ensure the World Cup does not ​worsen homelessness, displacement, or worker hardship – and suggested a “FIFA dividend” to return money to affected communities.“Folks ⁠love FIFA, they love soccer, but they also want to make ⁠sure that these events aren’t pushing people out, whether they work in the hotels, whether they’re on ‌the streets,” she said.“They want to see FIFA contribute if they’re going to be here.”Vancouver hosts the first of ​its seven World Cup matches on June 13.Published on May 01, 2026 #Advocates #homeless #hotel #workers #protest #FIFA #Congress #Vancouver
Sports news

Protesters urge FIFA to ban Iran from World Cup

“Right now there’s already a crisis ⁠and there’s a big fear that it’s going to get even worse,” she said.

The marchers were joined by hotel workers ‌from Unite Here Local 40 outside the Pan Pacific Hotel, where FIFA Congress delegates were reportedly staying.

Union spokesperson Michelle Travis said soaring hotel prices are not resulting in better pay for workers, many of whom must commute long distances because they cannot afford to live in Vancouver.

The protesters called ‌for FIFA and event organisers to ensure the World Cup does not ​worsen homelessness, displacement, or worker hardship – and suggested a “FIFA dividend” to return money to affected communities.

“Folks ⁠love FIFA, they love soccer, but they also want to make ⁠sure that these events aren’t pushing people out, whether they work in the hotels, whether they’re on ‌the streets,” she said.

“They want to see FIFA contribute if they’re going to be here.”

Vancouver hosts the first of ​its seven World Cup matches on June 13.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Advocates #homeless #hotel #workers #protest #FIFA #Congress #Vancouver">Advocates for homeless, hotel workers protest outside FIFA Congress in Vancouver

Homelessness ‌advocates and hotel workers rallied outside the FIFA ​Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, criticising the city’s ⁠preparations for the upcoming World Cup and warning that vulnerable residents and workers are being ignored.

Protesters from an anti-FIFA coalition said a ‌displacement of homeless people had already begun, citing street sweeps, restrictions on tents and the loss of ‌belongings.

They demanded no police sweeps of encampments or World ‌Cup-related ⁠escalations and criticised Vancouver’s February human-rights action plan ⁠related to the tournament as weak and lacking firm commitments.

“There’s a lot of anxiety and fear in the community about what’s going to happen ​with the FIFA games,” Fiona ‌York, a community advocate, told Reuters.

York said many unhoused residents fear a repeat of the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, when people remember intensified displacement and policing. She argued that ‌money being spent on the tournament could instead support ​shelters, tiny homes, or safe places for people living in vehicles.

ALSO READ | Protesters urge FIFA to ban Iran from World Cup

“Right now there’s already a crisis ⁠and there’s a big fear that it’s going to get even worse,” she said.

The marchers were joined by hotel workers ‌from Unite Here Local 40 outside the Pan Pacific Hotel, where FIFA Congress delegates were reportedly staying.

Union spokesperson Michelle Travis said soaring hotel prices are not resulting in better pay for workers, many of whom must commute long distances because they cannot afford to live in Vancouver.

The protesters called ‌for FIFA and event organisers to ensure the World Cup does not ​worsen homelessness, displacement, or worker hardship – and suggested a “FIFA dividend” to return money to affected communities.

“Folks ⁠love FIFA, they love soccer, but they also want to make ⁠sure that these events aren’t pushing people out, whether they work in the hotels, whether they’re on ‌the streets,” she said.

“They want to see FIFA contribute if they’re going to be here.”

Vancouver hosts the first of ​its seven World Cup matches on June 13.

Published on May 01, 2026

#Advocates #homeless #hotel #workers #protest #FIFA #Congress #Vancouver

Homelessness ‌advocates and hotel workers rallied outside the FIFA ​Congress in Vancouver on Thursday, criticising…

Gianni Infantino to seek fourth term as FIFA president

CRACKDOWN ON PROTESTERS

Anti-government protests in Iran in January were met ⁠with a brutal crackdown by the state in which thousands died. Mahmoudi said the carnage outweighed the desire of the players on the team to ‌compete at the tournament.

“How about those are killed, the Iranian footballers, who are killed also? FIFA shouldn’t be quiet about them,” he said.

“People should speak up about the athletes who have been killed, especially the footballers. Russia was banned from the World Cup… so we expect FIFA to do the same.”

Iranian football federation officials, including president Mehdi Taj, were ‌due to attend the gathering in Vancouver but turned back at Toronto airport after what ​Tehran described as “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration authorities, despite travelling with valid visas.

Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on ⁠a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the IRGC, which Ottawa ⁠designates as a terrorist organisation, were inadmissible.

Taj is a former member of the IRGC.

“The moment we heard that he was coming ‌to Canada, we tried our best to deport him, and we’re happy that it happened,” Mahmoudi said. “This is really great success for us. ​It shows that Iranian people, when they’re united, can do big things.”

Published on May 01, 2026

#Protesters #urgeFIFA #ban #Iran #World #Cup"> Protesters urge FIFA to ban Iran from World Cup Iran’s football team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), ​not the people of Iran, and FIFA should ban ⁠the team from participating in the upcoming World Cup, protesters gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver said on Thursday.“This is not Iran, this is the Islamic Republic’s ‌team. This is IRGC’s team,” said Pouria Mahmoudi, an organiser with Mission for My Homeland, which brought together about 30 ‌protesters draped in Iranian flags and holding signs supporting Iranian opposition ‌figure ⁠Reza Pahlavi.“They’re here not to represent Iran. They’re here to ⁠normalise what’s happening in Iran, the massacre in Iran. So, no, they should not be in the World Cup,” he told Reuters.Iran has qualified for the June 11-July 19 tournament ​but its participation has been ‌fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches on U.S. soil amid the nation’s two-month old conflict with the United States and Israel.FIFA President Gianni Infantino reiterated on Thursday that he expected Iran to ‌participate and play matches in the U.S., and U.S. President Donald ​Trump later in the day said he agreed with Infantino’s position.ALSO READ | Gianni Infantino to seek fourth term as FIFA presidentCRACKDOWN ON PROTESTERSAnti-government protests in Iran in January were met ⁠with a brutal crackdown by the state in which thousands died. Mahmoudi said the carnage outweighed the desire of the players on the team to ‌compete at the tournament.“How about those are killed, the Iranian footballers, who are killed also? FIFA shouldn’t be quiet about them,” he said.“People should speak up about the athletes who have been killed, especially the footballers. Russia was banned from the World Cup… so we expect FIFA to do the same.”Iranian football federation officials, including president Mehdi Taj, were ‌due to attend the gathering in Vancouver but turned back at Toronto airport after what ​Tehran described as “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration authorities, despite travelling with valid visas.Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on ⁠a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the IRGC, which Ottawa ⁠designates as a terrorist organisation, were inadmissible.Taj is a former member of the IRGC.“The moment we heard that he was coming ‌to Canada, we tried our best to deport him, and we’re happy that it happened,” Mahmoudi said. “This is really great success for us. ​It shows that Iranian people, when they’re united, can do big things.”Published on May 01, 2026 #Protesters #urgeFIFA #ban #Iran #World #Cup
Sports news

Gianni Infantino to seek fourth term as FIFA president

CRACKDOWN ON PROTESTERS

Anti-government protests in Iran in January were met ⁠with a brutal crackdown by the state in which thousands died. Mahmoudi said the carnage outweighed the desire of the players on the team to ‌compete at the tournament.

“How about those are killed, the Iranian footballers, who are killed also? FIFA shouldn’t be quiet about them,” he said.

“People should speak up about the athletes who have been killed, especially the footballers. Russia was banned from the World Cup… so we expect FIFA to do the same.”

Iranian football federation officials, including president Mehdi Taj, were ‌due to attend the gathering in Vancouver but turned back at Toronto airport after what ​Tehran described as “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration authorities, despite travelling with valid visas.

Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on ⁠a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the IRGC, which Ottawa ⁠designates as a terrorist organisation, were inadmissible.

Taj is a former member of the IRGC.

“The moment we heard that he was coming ‌to Canada, we tried our best to deport him, and we’re happy that it happened,” Mahmoudi said. “This is really great success for us. ​It shows that Iranian people, when they’re united, can do big things.”

Published on May 01, 2026

#Protesters #urgeFIFA #ban #Iran #World #Cup">Protesters urge FIFA to ban Iran from World Cup

Iran’s football team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), ​not the people of Iran, and FIFA should ban ⁠the team from participating in the upcoming World Cup, protesters gathered outside the FIFA Congress in Vancouver said on Thursday.

“This is not Iran, this is the Islamic Republic’s ‌team. This is IRGC’s team,” said Pouria Mahmoudi, an organiser with Mission for My Homeland, which brought together about 30 ‌protesters draped in Iranian flags and holding signs supporting Iranian opposition ‌figure ⁠Reza Pahlavi.

“They’re here not to represent Iran. They’re here to ⁠normalise what’s happening in Iran, the massacre in Iran. So, no, they should not be in the World Cup,” he told Reuters.

Iran has qualified for the June 11-July 19 tournament ​but its participation has been ‌fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches on U.S. soil amid the nation’s two-month old conflict with the United States and Israel.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino reiterated on Thursday that he expected Iran to ‌participate and play matches in the U.S., and U.S. President Donald ​Trump later in the day said he agreed with Infantino’s position.

ALSO READ | Gianni Infantino to seek fourth term as FIFA president

CRACKDOWN ON PROTESTERS

Anti-government protests in Iran in January were met ⁠with a brutal crackdown by the state in which thousands died. Mahmoudi said the carnage outweighed the desire of the players on the team to ‌compete at the tournament.

“How about those are killed, the Iranian footballers, who are killed also? FIFA shouldn’t be quiet about them,” he said.

“People should speak up about the athletes who have been killed, especially the footballers. Russia was banned from the World Cup… so we expect FIFA to do the same.”

Iranian football federation officials, including president Mehdi Taj, were ‌due to attend the gathering in Vancouver but turned back at Toronto airport after what ​Tehran described as “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration authorities, despite travelling with valid visas.

Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on ⁠a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the IRGC, which Ottawa ⁠designates as a terrorist organisation, were inadmissible.

Taj is a former member of the IRGC.

“The moment we heard that he was coming ‌to Canada, we tried our best to deport him, and we’re happy that it happened,” Mahmoudi said. “This is really great success for us. ​It shows that Iranian people, when they’re united, can do big things.”

Published on May 01, 2026

#Protesters #urgeFIFA #ban #Iran #World #Cup

Iran’s football team represents the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), ​not the people of Iran,…

Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA event

The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.

Iran secured a trip to a fourth successive World Cup by topping Group A in the third round of Asian qualifying last year, but Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, said the viciousness of the attacks ‌by U.S. and Israeli forces did not augur well for the World ​Cup, to be held from June 11 to July 19.

Iran is grouped with Belgium, Egypt ⁠and New Zealand in Group G. Its matches are scheduled ⁠to take place in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

If both the ‌U.S. and Iran finish second in their respective groups, the two countries could meet in a July 3 ​elimination match in Dallas.

But Iran’s participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.

FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. 

With inputs from Reuters

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Infantino #confirms #Iran #participate #FIFA #World #Cup"> Infantino confirms that Iran will participate in FIFA World Cup 2026 FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran will play at this year’s World Cup on Thursday as he addressed the global football governing body’s Congress in Vancouver.“Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” Infantino said as he opened his address to delegates. “And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America.”READ | Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA eventThe expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.Iran secured a trip to a fourth successive World Cup by topping Group A in the third round of Asian qualifying last year, but Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, said the viciousness of the attacks ‌by U.S. and Israeli forces did not augur well for the World ​Cup, to be held from June 11 to July 19.Iran is grouped with Belgium, Egypt ⁠and New Zealand in Group G. Its matches are scheduled ⁠to take place in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.If both the ‌U.S. and Iran finish second in their respective groups, the two countries could meet in a July 3 ​elimination match in Dallas.But Iran’s participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. With inputs from ReutersPublished on Apr 30, 2026 #Infantino #confirms #Iran #participate #FIFA #World #Cup
Sports news

Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA event

The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.

Iran secured a trip to a fourth successive World Cup by topping Group A in the third round of Asian qualifying last year, but Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, said the viciousness of the attacks ‌by U.S. and Israeli forces did not augur well for the World ​Cup, to be held from June 11 to July 19.

Iran is grouped with Belgium, Egypt ⁠and New Zealand in Group G. Its matches are scheduled ⁠to take place in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

If both the ‌U.S. and Iran finish second in their respective groups, the two countries could meet in a July 3 ​elimination match in Dallas.

But Iran’s participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.

FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. 

With inputs from Reuters

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Infantino #confirms #Iran #participate #FIFA #World #Cup">Infantino confirms that Iran will participate in FIFA World Cup 2026

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran will play at this year’s World Cup on Thursday as he addressed the global football governing body’s Congress in Vancouver.

“Let me start by the outset, confirming straightaway that of course Iran will be participating at the FIFA World Cup 2026,” Infantino said as he opened his address to delegates. “And of course, Iran will play in the United States of America.”

READ | Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA event

The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.

Iran secured a trip to a fourth successive World Cup by topping Group A in the third round of Asian qualifying last year, but Mehdi Taj, president of the Football Federation of the Islamic Republic of Iran, said the viciousness of the attacks ‌by U.S. and Israeli forces did not augur well for the World ​Cup, to be held from June 11 to July 19.

Iran is grouped with Belgium, Egypt ⁠and New Zealand in Group G. Its matches are scheduled ⁠to take place in the U.S., two in Los Angeles and one in Seattle.

If both the ‌U.S. and Iran finish second in their respective groups, the two countries could meet in a July 3 ​elimination match in Dallas.

But Iran’s participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.

FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. 

With inputs from Reuters

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Infantino #confirms #Iran #participate #FIFA #World #Cup

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated that Iran will play at this year’s World Cup on…

Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA event

No seats were set up for Iran at the Vancouver Convention Centre, a Reuters reporter witnessed, as 210 of the 211 ​member associations were shown ‌as present.

Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Ottawa designates as ‌a terrorist organisation, are inadmissible.

Taj is a former ​member of the IRGC.

The incident leaves one of the most politically sensitive delegations absent from ⁠FIFA’s annual gathering, depriving the congress of direct representation from a country whose presence at the 2026 World Cup ‌is already shaping behind-the-scenes discussions.

The issue is particularly acute given the tournament’s cross-border nature.

The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.

Iran has already qualified for ​the tournament, but its participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.

FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. 

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Iran #delegation #attended #FIFA #congress #chose #source"> Two of Iran delegation could have attended FIFA congress but chose not to, source says The FIFA Congress opened on Thursday without Iran, its delegation’s absence underscoring ​the geopolitical tensions and logistical fault lines hanging over the ‌upcoming World Cup.Iranian football federation officials, including president ​Mehdi Taj, were due to attend the ⁠gathering but turned back at Toronto airport after what Tehran described as “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration authorities, despite travelling with valid ‌visas.A source with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters two members of the delegation could ‌have attended the FIFA congress but chose not ‌to ⁠after one of their delegation was denied ⁠entry into Canada.READ | Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA eventNo seats were set up for Iran at the Vancouver Convention Centre, a Reuters reporter witnessed, as 210 of the 211 ​member associations were shown ‌as present.Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Ottawa designates as ‌a terrorist organisation, are inadmissible.Taj is a former ​member of the IRGC.The incident leaves one of the most politically sensitive delegations absent from ⁠FIFA’s annual gathering, depriving the congress of direct representation from a country whose presence at the 2026 World Cup ‌is already shaping behind-the-scenes discussions.The issue is particularly acute given the tournament’s cross-border nature.The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.Iran has already qualified for ​the tournament, but its participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. Published on Apr 30, 2026 #Iran #delegation #attended #FIFA #congress #chose #source
Sports news

Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA event

No seats were set up for Iran at the Vancouver Convention Centre, a Reuters reporter witnessed, as 210 of the 211 ​member associations were shown ‌as present.

Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Ottawa designates as ‌a terrorist organisation, are inadmissible.

Taj is a former ​member of the IRGC.

The incident leaves one of the most politically sensitive delegations absent from ⁠FIFA’s annual gathering, depriving the congress of direct representation from a country whose presence at the 2026 World Cup ‌is already shaping behind-the-scenes discussions.

The issue is particularly acute given the tournament’s cross-border nature.

The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.

Iran has already qualified for ​the tournament, but its participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.

FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. 

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Iran #delegation #attended #FIFA #congress #chose #source">Two of Iran delegation could have attended FIFA congress but chose not to, source says

The FIFA Congress opened on Thursday without Iran, its delegation’s absence underscoring ​the geopolitical tensions and logistical fault lines hanging over the ‌upcoming World Cup.

Iranian football federation officials, including president ​Mehdi Taj, were due to attend the ⁠gathering but turned back at Toronto airport after what Tehran described as “unacceptable behaviour” by Canadian immigration authorities, despite travelling with valid ‌visas.

A source with direct knowledge of the matter told Reuters two members of the delegation could ‌have attended the FIFA congress but chose not ‌to ⁠after one of their delegation was denied ⁠entry into Canada.

READ | Canadian official backs up report that Iranian football chiefs were denied entry for FIFA event

No seats were set up for Iran at the Vancouver Convention Centre, a Reuters reporter witnessed, as 210 of the 211 ​member associations were shown ‌as present.

Canadian officials said entry decisions were made on a case-by-case basis and reiterated that individuals linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), which Ottawa designates as ‌a terrorist organisation, are inadmissible.

Taj is a former ​member of the IRGC.

The incident leaves one of the most politically sensitive delegations absent from ⁠FIFA’s annual gathering, depriving the congress of direct representation from a country whose presence at the 2026 World Cup ‌is already shaping behind-the-scenes discussions.

The issue is particularly acute given the tournament’s cross-border nature.

The expanded 48-team World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the United States and Mexico, will require teams, officials and support staff to move repeatedly between jurisdictions, raising the prospect that visa restrictions or diplomatic ‌frictions could complicate planning for certain nations.

Iran has already qualified for ​the tournament, but its participation has been fraught, with Tehran requesting alternative venues for matches ⁠on U.S. soil.

FIFA has rejected the request, insisting the schedule ⁠would stand.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio said last week Washington had no objections to Iranian ‌players participating in the World Cup but added that the players would not be allowed to bring with ​them people with ties to the IRGC. 

Published on Apr 30, 2026

#Iran #delegation #attended #FIFA #congress #chose #source

The FIFA Congress opened on Thursday without Iran, its delegation’s absence underscoring ​the geopolitical tensions…

Sports news

A request for FIFA President Gianni Infantino to give be given a police escort while…

World Cup 2026 prize money could rise further as FIFA holds talks with associations

The expanded 48-team World Cup format, which includes an extra round-of-32 knockout stage, led to a FIFA review aimed at helping keep players on the field.

FIFA proposes to clear the disciplinary records of players who have one yellow card after the three-match group stage, allowing them to start the knockout phase afresh.

A second amnesty after the quarterfinals will apply to players who receive one yellow card during the three previous knockout rounds and whose teams advance to the semifinals.

Published on Apr 28, 2026

#FIFA #proposes #yellowcard #rule #change #reduce #World #Cup #suspensions"> FIFA proposes yellow-card rule change to reduce World Cup suspensions FIFA is preparing to tweak World Cup rules on yellow cards to ensure fewer players are suspended for key knockout matches in North America.An extra amnesty for yellow cards, wiping player disciplinary records twice during the expanded tournament, will be proposed at a meeting of FIFA’s ruling council on Tuesday, people familiar with the plan told The Associated Press. They spoke on condition of anonymity as the decision is not yet official.At the World Cup, players must serve a one-match ban if they are shown yellow cards in two different matches. In previous editions, yellow cards were cancelled after the quarterfinal stage.That ensured no player would miss the final through suspension only because of receiving a yellow card in the semifinal.ALSO READ: World Cup 2026 prize money could rise further as FIFA holds talks with associationsThe expanded 48-team World Cup format, which includes an extra round-of-32 knockout stage, led to a FIFA review aimed at helping keep players on the field.FIFA proposes to clear the disciplinary records of players who have one yellow card after the three-match group stage, allowing them to start the knockout phase afresh.A second amnesty after the quarterfinals will apply to players who receive one yellow card during the three previous knockout rounds and whose teams advance to the semifinals.Published on Apr 28, 2026 #FIFA #proposes #yellowcard #rule #change #reduce #World #Cup #suspensions
Sports news

World Cup 2026 prize money could rise further as FIFA holds talks with associations

The expanded 48-team World Cup format, which includes an extra round-of-32 knockout stage, led to a FIFA review aimed at helping keep players on the field.

FIFA proposes to clear the disciplinary records of players who have one yellow card after the three-match group stage, allowing them to start the knockout phase afresh.

A second amnesty after the quarterfinals will apply to players who receive one yellow card during the three previous knockout rounds and whose teams advance to the semifinals.

Published on Apr 28, 2026

#FIFA #proposes #yellowcard #rule #change #reduce #World #Cup #suspensions">FIFA proposes yellow-card rule change to reduce World Cup suspensions

FIFA is preparing to tweak World Cup rules on yellow cards to ensure fewer players are suspended for key knockout matches in North America.

An extra amnesty for yellow cards, wiping player disciplinary records twice during the expanded tournament, will be proposed at a meeting of FIFA’s ruling council on Tuesday, people familiar with the plan told The Associated Press. They spoke on condition of anonymity as the decision is not yet official.

At the World Cup, players must serve a one-match ban if they are shown yellow cards in two different matches. In previous editions, yellow cards were cancelled after the quarterfinal stage.

That ensured no player would miss the final through suspension only because of receiving a yellow card in the semifinal.

ALSO READ: World Cup 2026 prize money could rise further as FIFA holds talks with associations

The expanded 48-team World Cup format, which includes an extra round-of-32 knockout stage, led to a FIFA review aimed at helping keep players on the field.

FIFA proposes to clear the disciplinary records of players who have one yellow card after the three-match group stage, allowing them to start the knockout phase afresh.

A second amnesty after the quarterfinals will apply to players who receive one yellow card during the three previous knockout rounds and whose teams advance to the semifinals.

Published on Apr 28, 2026

#FIFA #proposes #yellowcard #rule #change #reduce #World #Cup #suspensions

FIFA is preparing to tweak World Cup rules on yellow cards to ensure fewer players…

Norwegian FA chief calls on FIFA to abolish peace prize

“The FIFA 2026 World Cup will no doubt be one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history ⁠of mankind, attracting millions of fans from around the world to 11 host cities across America,” White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Reuters.

“This will be a monumental event that requires close coordination between the Trump Administration, ‌FIFA, and all of our great federal, state, and local partners. President Trump is focused on ensuring that this is not only an incredible experience for all fans and visitors, but also the safest and most secure in history – and no amount of ridiculous scare tactics driven by liberal activist groups and the left-wing media will change that,” he added.

Concerns intensified on Thursday when advocacy groups issued a travel advisory warning that visitors travelling to the U.S. for the World Cup may face arbitrary detention or deportation, among ‌other human rights abuses.

Fans, players, journalists and other visitors may face racial profiling, searches of electronic devices, or risk of ​cruel or inhuman treatment if they end up in immigration detention facilities, according to the advisory.

Thursday’s warnings followed a March statement from Amnesty International that the tournament is ⁠drifting far from the “safe, free and inclusive” event promised by FIFA. HRW also said it had written to ⁠Infantino requesting details about the nominees, judges, terms of reference and selection process for FIFA’s inaugural peace prize.

Trump was awarded the prize in December for what the world football’s global governing body ‌said were his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in troubled hotspots around the world.

“By concocting this award, Infantino risks turning the 2026 FIFA World Cup… into yet another sportswashing event in ​a world that already has far too many,” HRW added.

Published on Apr 27, 2026

#Human #Rights #Watch #urges #FIFA #push #ICE #Truce #World #Cup"> Human Rights Watch urges FIFA to push for ‘ICE Truce’ at World Cup 2026 FIFA should press the U.S. government ‌to establish an “ICE Truce” for this year’s World Cup, including a public guarantee from ​federal authorities to refrain from immigration enforcement operations at games and venues, Human Rights ⁠Watch (HRW) said in a report published on Monday.FIFA World Cup 2026 – the first edition of the global showpiece tournament to feature 48 teams – will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July ‌19. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been the face of a hardline immigration crackdown and deportation drive pursued by the administration of President Donald Trump.Rights groups have condemned the ‌crackdown, saying it has led to violations of free speech and due process rights and ‌created ⁠an unsafe environment, particularly for minorities. Trump casts his actions as necessary to improve domestic ⁠security and curb illegal immigration.“FIFA needs to act urgently to address the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans, and workers. One concrete thing it should do is work to persuade the Trump administration to establish an ‘ICE Truce,’” HRW said.“Gianni Infantino (FIFA president) ​and his FIFA colleagues should use their ‌leverage to demand that the Trump administration do what’s right for the games. Roll back discriminatory travel bans, refrain from abusive immigration enforcement operations in and around World Cup venues, protect children’s rights and commit to uphold freedom of assembly and speech,” it added.OLYMPIC TRUCEThe idea is drawn from the “Olympic ‌Truce,” a tradition dating back to ancient Greece, when warring city-states paused hostilities so ​athletes and spectators could travel safely to the Games.ALSO READ | Norwegian FA chief calls on FIFA to abolish peace prize“The FIFA 2026 World Cup will no doubt be one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history ⁠of mankind, attracting millions of fans from around the world to 11 host cities across America,” White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Reuters.“This will be a monumental event that requires close coordination between the Trump Administration, ‌FIFA, and all of our great federal, state, and local partners. President Trump is focused on ensuring that this is not only an incredible experience for all fans and visitors, but also the safest and most secure in history – and no amount of ridiculous scare tactics driven by liberal activist groups and the left-wing media will change that,” he added.Concerns intensified on Thursday when advocacy groups issued a travel advisory warning that visitors travelling to the U.S. for the World Cup may face arbitrary detention or deportation, among ‌other human rights abuses.Fans, players, journalists and other visitors may face racial profiling, searches of electronic devices, or risk of ​cruel or inhuman treatment if they end up in immigration detention facilities, according to the advisory.Thursday’s warnings followed a March statement from Amnesty International that the tournament is ⁠drifting far from the “safe, free and inclusive” event promised by FIFA. HRW also said it had written to ⁠Infantino requesting details about the nominees, judges, terms of reference and selection process for FIFA’s inaugural peace prize.Trump was awarded the prize in December for what the world football’s global governing body ‌said were his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in troubled hotspots around the world.“By concocting this award, Infantino risks turning the 2026 FIFA World Cup… into yet another sportswashing event in ​a world that already has far too many,” HRW added.Published on Apr 27, 2026 #Human #Rights #Watch #urges #FIFA #push #ICE #Truce #World #Cup
Sports news

Norwegian FA chief calls on FIFA to abolish peace prize

“The FIFA 2026 World Cup will no doubt be one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history ⁠of mankind, attracting millions of fans from around the world to 11 host cities across America,” White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Reuters.

“This will be a monumental event that requires close coordination between the Trump Administration, ‌FIFA, and all of our great federal, state, and local partners. President Trump is focused on ensuring that this is not only an incredible experience for all fans and visitors, but also the safest and most secure in history – and no amount of ridiculous scare tactics driven by liberal activist groups and the left-wing media will change that,” he added.

Concerns intensified on Thursday when advocacy groups issued a travel advisory warning that visitors travelling to the U.S. for the World Cup may face arbitrary detention or deportation, among ‌other human rights abuses.

Fans, players, journalists and other visitors may face racial profiling, searches of electronic devices, or risk of ​cruel or inhuman treatment if they end up in immigration detention facilities, according to the advisory.

Thursday’s warnings followed a March statement from Amnesty International that the tournament is ⁠drifting far from the “safe, free and inclusive” event promised by FIFA. HRW also said it had written to ⁠Infantino requesting details about the nominees, judges, terms of reference and selection process for FIFA’s inaugural peace prize.

Trump was awarded the prize in December for what the world football’s global governing body ‌said were his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in troubled hotspots around the world.

“By concocting this award, Infantino risks turning the 2026 FIFA World Cup… into yet another sportswashing event in ​a world that already has far too many,” HRW added.

Published on Apr 27, 2026

#Human #Rights #Watch #urges #FIFA #push #ICE #Truce #World #Cup">Human Rights Watch urges FIFA to push for ‘ICE Truce’ at World Cup 2026

FIFA should press the U.S. government ‌to establish an “ICE Truce” for this year’s World Cup, including a public guarantee from ​federal authorities to refrain from immigration enforcement operations at games and venues, Human Rights ⁠Watch (HRW) said in a report published on Monday.

FIFA World Cup 2026 – the first edition of the global showpiece tournament to feature 48 teams – will be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July ‌19. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has been the face of a hardline immigration crackdown and deportation drive pursued by the administration of President Donald Trump.

Rights groups have condemned the ‌crackdown, saying it has led to violations of free speech and due process rights and ‌created ⁠an unsafe environment, particularly for minorities. Trump casts his actions as necessary to improve domestic ⁠security and curb illegal immigration.

“FIFA needs to act urgently to address the risks of human rights abuses for athletes, fans, and workers. One concrete thing it should do is work to persuade the Trump administration to establish an ‘ICE Truce,’” HRW said.

“Gianni Infantino (FIFA president) ​and his FIFA colleagues should use their ‌leverage to demand that the Trump administration do what’s right for the games. Roll back discriminatory travel bans, refrain from abusive immigration enforcement operations in and around World Cup venues, protect children’s rights and commit to uphold freedom of assembly and speech,” it added.

OLYMPIC TRUCE

The idea is drawn from the “Olympic ‌Truce,” a tradition dating back to ancient Greece, when warring city-states paused hostilities so ​athletes and spectators could travel safely to the Games.

ALSO READ | Norwegian FA chief calls on FIFA to abolish peace prize

“The FIFA 2026 World Cup will no doubt be one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history ⁠of mankind, attracting millions of fans from around the world to 11 host cities across America,” White House spokesman Davis Ingle told Reuters.

“This will be a monumental event that requires close coordination between the Trump Administration, ‌FIFA, and all of our great federal, state, and local partners. President Trump is focused on ensuring that this is not only an incredible experience for all fans and visitors, but also the safest and most secure in history – and no amount of ridiculous scare tactics driven by liberal activist groups and the left-wing media will change that,” he added.

Concerns intensified on Thursday when advocacy groups issued a travel advisory warning that visitors travelling to the U.S. for the World Cup may face arbitrary detention or deportation, among ‌other human rights abuses.

Fans, players, journalists and other visitors may face racial profiling, searches of electronic devices, or risk of ​cruel or inhuman treatment if they end up in immigration detention facilities, according to the advisory.

Thursday’s warnings followed a March statement from Amnesty International that the tournament is ⁠drifting far from the “safe, free and inclusive” event promised by FIFA. HRW also said it had written to ⁠Infantino requesting details about the nominees, judges, terms of reference and selection process for FIFA’s inaugural peace prize.

Trump was awarded the prize in December for what the world football’s global governing body ‌said were his efforts to promote dialogue and de-escalation in troubled hotspots around the world.

“By concocting this award, Infantino risks turning the 2026 FIFA World Cup… into yet another sportswashing event in ​a world that already has far too many,” HRW added.

Published on Apr 27, 2026

#Human #Rights #Watch #urges #FIFA #push #ICE #Truce #World #Cup

FIFA should press the U.S. government ‌to establish an “ICE Truce” for this year’s World…

Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi Arabia

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.

The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career"> Fernandes hopes Portugal wins FIFA World Cup 2026 to crown Ronaldo’s international career Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed hope that he and his ​teammates can help crown Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‌international career by winning the 2026 ​World Cup.The 41-year-old Ronaldo ⁠is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup in June, a tournament ‌expected to be the final major chapter of the forward’s ‌career.“Wrapping up all this last World ‌Cup ⁠with Cristiano (Ronaldo) winning it would ⁠be something amazing,” Fernandes told Wayne Rooney in a BBC report published on Friday.“I really ​hope we can ‌make it happen, not just for Portugal, but for everything Cristiano gave to football and the world,” ‌the Portuguese midfielder and Manchester United ​captain said.READ | Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi ArabiaRonaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.Published on Apr 25, 2026 #Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career
Sports news

Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi Arabia

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.

The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career">Fernandes hopes Portugal wins FIFA World Cup 2026 to crown Ronaldo’s international career

Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed hope that he and his ​teammates can help crown Cristiano Ronaldo’s ‌international career by winning the 2026 ​World Cup.

The 41-year-old Ronaldo ⁠is set to appear in a record sixth World Cup in June, a tournament ‌expected to be the final major chapter of the forward’s ‌career.

“Wrapping up all this last World ‌Cup ⁠with Cristiano (Ronaldo) winning it would ⁠be something amazing,” Fernandes told Wayne Rooney in a BBC report published on Friday.

“I really ​hope we can ‌make it happen, not just for Portugal, but for everything Cristiano gave to football and the world,” ‌the Portuguese midfielder and Manchester United ​captain said.

READ | Georgios Donis replaces Hervé Renard as head coach of Saudi Arabia

Ronaldo, considered one of the greatest players ever to ⁠have not won a World Cup, is the record scorer in international ‌football with 143 goals.

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner was part of Portugal’s Euro 2016-winning team and has lifted the Nations League twice.

Portugal’s opening Group K game is on June ‌17 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, followed ​by Uzbekistan on June 23, with both games in Houston. ⁠It plays Colombia on June 27 in ⁠Miami in its final group game.

The World Cup runs from ‌June 11 to July 19 in Canada, the United States and Mexico.

Published on Apr 25, 2026

#Fernandes #hopes #Portugal #wins #FIFA #World #Cup #crown #Ronaldos #international #career

Portugal midfielder Bruno Fernandes expressed hope that he and his ​teammates can help crown Cristiano…