As the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off in Mexico City, the tournament has already been overshadowed by a wave of scandals involving logistical failures, safety concerns and unprecedented costs. Novaya Gazeta Europe reports that the event faces a potential “catastrophe” due to issues ranging from the interrogation of players at borders to the exclusion of high-ranking officials.
Sky-high costs for fans
This tournament is set to be the most expensive ever for spectators. Under FIFA’s new dynamic pricing system, top-tier tickets for the final in New Jersey have skyrocketed to $33,000, while some resale sites list them for as much as $11 million. Fans are also being hit with hidden fees, including $300 parking and, for the first time, charges to enter public fan zones. In New York, public transit prices to the stadium reportedly jumped from $12 to $150 before a later adjustment.
Immigration and infrastructure hurdles
Travelers and teams alike are struggling with strict U.S. policies. Some fans from African nations must provide a $15,000 security deposit to secure a visa, while citizens from countries like Iran and Haiti are facing total bans. Even players haven’t been spared; members of the Uzbek and Senegalese squads were subjected to invasive searches and lengthy detentions upon arrival. Meanwhile, experts warn that U.S. public transport, which received a “D” grade from engineers, could collapse under the weight of five million visitors.
Safety and climate threats
Security is a top priority following a recent shooting near England’s training base in Kansas City. Additionally, extreme heat — reaching 37 degrees Celsius — and the start of the Atlantic hurricane season pose significant health risks. While FIFA has introduced mandatory water breaks, the combination of high humidity and an exhausting 104-match schedule has players and medics worried about a surge in serious injuries.
