2026 World Cup opens amidst political controversies over US policies and FIFA's silence (legrandcontinent.eu)

• 48 teams, 104 matches across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, USA
• Somali referee Omar Artan denied entry to US despite valid visa
• Iran national team moves base to Mexico due to visa complications

"The 2026 FIFA World Cup kicked off on June 11, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. The tournament faces unprecedented political controversies: FIFA has not condemned US travel restrictions that blocked a Somali referee and many fans; President Trump threatened to annex Canada; and the Iranian team moved its base to Mexico due to visa issues. The opening match between Mexico and South Africa at the Azteca Stadium is expected to be low-scoring."