50 days to the World Cup: 5 points raising major concerns in the host countries

With fewer than 50 days left until the start of the World Cup, FIFA and the host nations are facing sharp criticism over the social, political, and logistical issues surrounding the tournament.

Canada and Mexico will co-host the event with the United States, which together with Israel launched a military conflict against Iran on February 28, a nation that is also participating in this World Cup. Although a temporary and fragile ceasefire has been reached, Iran’s participation remains uncertain.

Fans across all three host countries have also reacted strongly to high ticket prices, while local politicians and public opinion have raised concerns about unjustified increases in transportation costs linking stadiums in the U.S. Al Jazeera Sport provides an overview of the main concerns ahead of the tournament, which kicks off on June 11 with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.

The big question: Will Iran take part?

The Iran national football team continues its preparations, but officials have stated that the final decision on participation will be made by the government and the National Security Council after assessing player safety on U.S. territory.

Iran stated last month that it could withdraw, especially if the host country does not guarantee the team’s security. This reaction came after a social media post by Donald Trump, in which he suggested that the safety of the Iranian team could not be fully guaranteed in the United States, where Iran is scheduled to play all its group-stage matches. The Iranian federation requested that FIFA move the matches to Mexico, but the request was denied. FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated firmly last week that Iran “must be present” at the tournament.

Chaos over transport prices in the U.S.

Fans are expected to pay nearly 12 times more than the standard $12.90 fare for a round-trip train journey from Penn Station to MetLife Stadium, where the grand final will be played.

New Jersey Governor Mikie Sherrill and FIFA have exchanged criticism over the $150 price for a trip that lasts just 15 minutes. While Sherrill is calling on FIFA to cover the costs, the organization has responded that it has no such obligation.

A similar situation is seen in Boston, where travel to Gillette Stadium costs four times more than usual. Meanwhile, cities like Houston, Los Angeles, and Philadelphia have pledged to keep fares unchanged and affordable.

High ticket prices and fears of raids

Pricing policies have sparked outrage, with tickets ranging from $140 to a staggering $10,990 for the final. Although the initial bid promised tickets starting at $21, the reality shows that the cheapest tickets cost around $60, while most exceed $200.

Another hot issue is the fear among international fans of potential raids by immigration agencies such as ICE and CBP. Following deportation policies under the administration of Donald Trump, Gianni Infantino has been urged to push for a temporary moratorium during the tournament so that fans do not feel at risk.

Security alarm in Mexico

Recently, violence in Mexico has raised concerns after a tragic attack in Teotihuacan, where a Canadian tourist was killed and 13 others were injured. The incident has cast doubt on the security protocols of the government led by President Claudia Sheinbaum, who has promised to strengthen measures to ensure the smooth running of the tournament.

“KORÇA BOOM”