Africa-Press – Lesotho. The 2026 World Cup already faces a storm of controversy long before the opening match. Instead of generating excitement, the tournament hosts rising diplomatic tensions, political accusations, and cultural clashes that overshadow the football itself.
Suspicions of collusion involving Gianni Infantino and Donald Trump, combined with mounting criticism over human-rights issues, create an atmosphere of distrust. The controversial “Pride Match” between Egypt and Iran only deepens the crisis and places FIFA under unprecedented scrutiny, as the organization struggles to defend its neutrality while navigating explosive geopolitical pressure.
The backlash from both Egypt and Iran over the Seattle-based Pride event amplifies an already fragile situation. Tehran denounces the symbolic manipulation of its national team, while Cairo demands the removal of all LGBTQ+-related activities tied to the match, invoking cultural and religious sensitivities. Local organizers insist on maintaining the event, arguing for inclusion, which puts FIFA in the middle of a highly sensitive diplomatic clash.
With political tensions rising, visa disputes unresolved, and multiple nations accusing FIFA of provocation, the tournament risks descending into chaos before the teams even step onto the pitch.
