FIFA Vice-President Addresses Concerns Before World Cup
Victor Montagliani, FIFA’s vice-president, has sought to ease worries about the upcoming FIFA World Cup. He pointed out that political and security issues are standard in the lead-up to every tournament. Montagliani emphasized that FIFA’s main focus is the safety of fans and effective collaboration with host governments. He noted that such issues are part of organizing large global sports events.
This summer’s World Cup will take place in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. However, preparations have been marked by various challenges, including the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, President Trump’s immigration policies, and violence from gangs in Mexico.
Iran has announced it will not play its matches scheduled in the U.S. due to concerns over the safety of its players, as Trump hinted at potential risks for them. Additionally, fans from different countries are experiencing difficulties with visa applications and fear being targeted by immigration authorities. Despite these challenges, Montagliani, who also leads CONCACAF, believes these concerns are similar to those seen in past tournaments.
“The reality is, with every World Cup, there have always been geopolitical issues. Look back at ’78 in Argentina; that tournament was held during a military dictatorship,” Montagliani noted. He referred to the historical struggles in countries that have hosted the event, explaining that the current situation is amplified by today’s media and social channels.
Montagliani stated, “Once the tournament kicks off on June 11, people tend to forget about the surrounding issues and focus on the game.”
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has faced criticism for his close ties with Trump, including attending a peace summit related to the Gaza conflict and awarding Trump a newly created FIFA Peace Prize during the World Cup draw in December.
Montagliani reassured that the main priority is ensuring top-level security, highlighting the need for strong partnerships with the governments of Canada, the U.S., and Mexico. “Our goal is to ensure fan safety and that everyone enjoys the event. Once the games begin, it’s all about football,” he concluded.
