FIFA World Cup Archives - Page 3 of 4

Zohran Mamdani introduces discount ticket scheme for FIFA World Cup

May 22, 2026 by Newsdesk

NEW YORK: Following strong public criticism over FIFA World Cup ticket prices, New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has introduced a limited affordable ticket scheme for local residents.

Under the new initiative, tickets will be available for $50, aimed at making the tournament more accessible to city residents.

1,000 World Cup tickets. $50 each. All for New Yorkers.

We fought hard to make the people’s game available to the people — and won.

Let the summer of soccer begin. pic.twitter.com/CakNsxtF6b
— Mayor Zohran Kwame Mamdani (@NYCMayor) May 21, 2026

According to international media reports, around 1,000 tickets have been allocated for New York residents for selected group-stage and knockout matches. However, the final match is not included in the scheme.

Officials said the tickets will be distributed through a lottery system to ensure transparency.

Reports indicate that approximately 150 seats per match will be reserved under the program, and successful applicants will be allowed to purchase a maximum of two tickets each. The package will also include transport facilities to and from match venues.

The mayor said the initiative aims to connect local residents with the FIFA World Cup and reduce exclusion caused by high ticket prices, stressing that major sporting events should not be limited only to wealthy spectators.

The announcement comes amid ongoing criticism of FIFA’s dynamic pricing system, with various groups calling for lower prices and greater access for local fans.

FIFPRO raises fresh concerns over extreme heat at FIFA World Cup

May 21, 2026 by Newsdesk

NEW YORK: Global football players’ union FIFPRO has once again expressed concerns over extreme heat risks during the 2026 FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

According to a new report by climate research group World Weather Attribution, nearly one-quarter of the tournament’s matches could be played in conditions where temperatures may pose serious risks to players and spectators.

The report warned that at least five matches in the expanded 104-game tournament could face weather conditions severe enough to warrant postponement recommendations.

Researchers used the Wet Bulb Globe Temperature (WBGT) index to assess heat stress levels, measuring how effectively the human body can cool itself under extreme weather conditions.

FIFPRO Medical Director Vincent Gouttebarge said special safety measures become necessary when WBGT temperatures exceed 26 degrees Celsius, while suspending matches is recommended when levels rise above 28 degrees Celsius.

In response, FIFA said it has already developed plans to protect players and fans, including cooling systems, hydration breaks and enhanced medical services.

Experts believe extreme heat could also affect the style of play, with teams likely to adopt more cautious tactics to manage physical strain.

The report identified cities such as Miami, New York City, Philadelphia and Kansas City among the locations facing the highest heat risk, while warning that temperatures during the tournament final could also reach dangerous levels.

Ronaldo confirmed for record sixth FIFA World Cup with Portugal

May 19, 2026 by Newsdesk

LISBON: Cristiano Ronaldo is set to make history after being named in Portugal’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he is expected to become the first player to feature in six World Cup tournaments.

The 41-year-old forward was included in the squad announced by Portugal coach Roberto Martínez, confirming his participation in the tournament to be held in the United States, Canada and Mexico beginning on June 11.

Ronaldo, who plays for Al Nassr FC, already holds the world records for most international appearances (226) and most international goals (143).

The five-time Ballon d’Or winner is one of six players to have appeared in five World Cups and is now poised to set a new record with a sixth appearance for Portugal national football team.

FIFA World Cup 2026 official song “Dai Dai” released worldwide

May 15, 2026 by Newsdesk

The official song for the FIFA World Cup 2026, titled “Dai Dai,” has been officially released, FIFA announced.

The track has been created by Colombian singer Shakira and Nigerian artist Burna Boy as part of the tournament’s official music campaign.

According to FIFA, the song has been released in support of the FIFA Global Citizen Education Fund, with proceeds dedicated to improving access to education for children around the world.

Shakira has pledged her royalties from the song to the education fund, while the music production company has also contributed an initial donation of $250,000.

FIFA said the track is now available on all major streaming platforms, with additional songs expected to be released in the coming weeks as part of the official World Cup album.

The governing body also confirmed that the 2026 World Cup final will feature a halftime show for the first time in tournament history, with Shakira among the performers expected to take part.

Mexico faces backlash over early school year end ahead of FIFA World Cup

May 9, 2026 by Newsdesk

Mexico City: Mexican authorities have announced that the academic year will end more than a month early as the country prepares to host matches of the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026, a decision that has sparked widespread criticism from parents, educators, and policy experts.

Education Secretary Mario Delgado said the school year would conclude on June 5, approximately 40 days earlier than scheduled, citing both extreme weather conditions and logistical preparations for the global football tournament.

“We’re going to end the school year on June 5 because many states are already experiencing high temperatures, and there is also the issue of the World Cup,” Delgado said during an event in the northern state of Sonora.

He added that authorities are also considering advancing the start of the next academic year, currently set for August 31, to adjust the national education calendar around the tournament.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, jointly hosted by Mexico, the United States, and Canada, is scheduled to begin on June 11, with Mexico’s opening match against South Africa set to take place in Mexico City.

However, the announcement quickly triggered controversy. President Claudia Sheinbaum clarified that the proposal was not yet final.

“There is no definitive calendar yet,” she said at her daily press briefing. “It is important that children do not lose learning time.”

The decision has raised concerns among parents, many of whom now face additional childcare costs during an extended summer break.

Public policy think tank Mexico Evalua warned that the move could negatively impact more than 23 million students, further deepening educational inequalities and reducing already limited learning time.

Business groups also criticized the plan. The Coparmex employers’ association described it as “hasty,” warning of disruptions to family routines and potential effects on workforce productivity.

In a significant pushback, officials in the western state of Jalisco—governed by opposition authorities—announced they would not implement the early closure. Schools there will remain open until June 30 as originally scheduled, except for brief suspensions during World Cup matches hosted in Guadalajara to accommodate logistical arrangements.

Iran to play in World Cup 2026, seeks guarantees from hosts

May 9, 2026 by Newsdesk

TEHRAN: Iran national football team has confirmed that it will participate in the FIFA World Cup 2026, while urging host nations the United States, Canada, and Mexico to address its security and logistical concerns.

According to the Football Federation Islamic Republic of Iran, regional tensions and recent political developments had raised uncertainty over the team’s participation.

However, the federation said a final decision has been made and Iran will compete in the tournament.

Federation President Mehdi Taj said Iran has presented 10 conditions to the host countries. These include the uninterrupted issuance of visas for players and officials, respect for Iran’s national flag and anthem, and comprehensive security arrangements for the team.

Iran has also sought assurances that players who may face additional scrutiny due to past affiliations will not encounter visa-related obstacles.

Earlier, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated that Iran’s matches in the United States would proceed as scheduled.

Iran has been drawn in Group G alongside New Zealand national football team, Belgium national football team, and Egypt national football team. The team is set to play its opening match on June 15 in Los Angeles.

Shakira returns to FIFA World Cup stage with official 2026 anthem teaser

May 8, 2026May 8, 2026 by Newsdesk

Global pop icon Shakira has once again become part of football’s biggest global spectacle, as excitement grows over her newly unveiled official song for the FIFA World Cup 2026.

The Colombian superstar shared a teaser of the upcoming anthem titled “Die Die” across her social media platforms, sparking widespread excitement among football and music fans worldwide. The track features collaboration with Nigerian music star Burna Boy, while the full release is scheduled for May 14.

From Maracaná Stadium, here is “Dai Dai,” the @FIFAWorldCup Official Song 2026. Coming 5/14. We’re ready! ⚽️🐺 @burnaboy pic.twitter.com/UcfpO0s7jN
— Shakira (@shakira) May 7, 2026

The music video was filmed at the iconic Maracana Stadium, where Shakira appears alongside vibrant dancers dressed in colors representing various national football teams, capturing the spirit and energy of international football.

The teaser quickly gained massive attention online, attracting millions of views on social media platforms and reviving memories of previous World Cup anthems associated with Shakira.

Shakira’s connection with the FIFA World Cup dates back years. Her 2010 anthem Waka Waka (This Time for Africa) became one of the most iconic World Cup songs ever produced.

She was also part of the 2006 opening celebrations with Hips Don’t Lie and entertained football fans again in 2014 with La La La.

The new teaser also includes glimpses of official footballs from past FIFA World Cups, serving as a tribute to Shakira’s longstanding association with the tournament.

Fans on social media described her return as “iconic,” with many saying the World Cup feels incomplete without Shakira’s music. Some even jokingly suggested that every future FIFA World Cup anthem should permanently belong to her.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be jointly hosted by United States, Mexico, and Canada from June 11 to July 19, 2026. The opening match will take place at Estadio Azteca, while the final is scheduled at MetLife Stadium. FIFA is also set to introduce a Super Bowl-style halftime show for the first time in tournament history, with Chris Martin of Coldplay overseeing the musical direction. Analysts believe the 2026 World Cup could become a major celebration of not only football, b

FIFA World Cup 2026 to be biggest ever with record prize money

May 4, 2026 by Newsdesk

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to become the largest sporting event in history, with 48 teams competing across the United States, Mexico, and Canada starting June 11, 2026.

For the first time, 48 nations will participate up from 32 in the 2022 edition making it the most expansive World Cup ever.

Defending champions Argentina will look to retain their title, while teams like Jordan, Uzbekistan, Cape Verde, and Curaçao are set to make their historic debut appearances.

Beyond the expanded lineup, the tournament will also feature record-breaking prize money. FIFA has allocated a total prize pool of $871 million nearly double that of the 2022 World Cup.

Each team will receive $2.5 million for preparation and $10 million upon qualification, guaranteeing at least $12.5 million per team. Additional earnings will depend on performance throughout the tournament.

The winning team will take home $53.5 million, significantly higher than the $42 million awarded in 2022. The runner-up will receive $36.5 million, while third and fourth place teams will earn $32.5 million and $30.5 million respectively.

Teams finishing between fifth and eighth place will each receive $22.5 million, while those ranked ninth to sixteenth will get $18.5 million. Teams placed seventeenth to thirty-second will earn $14.5 million, and those finishing thirty-third to forty-eighth will receive $12.5 million.

The tournament will also feature 104 matches up from 64 in 2022 further highlighting the масштаб and global reach of the event.

Iran confirms participation in FIFA World Cup 2026

April 22, 2026 by Newsdesk

TEHRAN: Iran has officially confirmed its participation in the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 to be held in the United States, Mexico, and Canada, despite earlier political tensions surrounding the tournament.

According to the Iranian Ministry of Sports, the national football team is fully prepared to take part in the global event, which is scheduled to begin on June 11.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani also confirmed that all necessary arrangements for participation have been completed.

The announcement comes after comments from FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who had previously stated that Iran would be part of the tournament.

Iran has already qualified for the World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The team’s matches are currently scheduled to be played in the United States.

Under the group stage fixtures, Iran is set to face New Zealand in Los Angeles on June 15, followed by matches against Belgium on June 21 and Egypt on June 27.

Earlier reports suggested that the Iranian Football Federation had considered requesting FIFA to relocate its matches to Mexico due to ongoing geopolitical tensions involving the United States and Israel. However, no final decision on venue changes has been confirmed.

The participation had also drawn political commentary, including from U.S. President Donald Trump, who earlier suggested Iran’s participation in the U.S. might be inappropriate under current conditions. Iran, however, maintained that no country could exclude its national team from the tournament.

Despite tensions, both sporting authorities and political figures have now indicated that Iran will take part in the global football event as planned.

FIFA Chief Infantino backs on-schedule World Cup 2026

March 20, 2026 by Newsdesk

Zurich: FIFA President Gianni Infantino has reaffirmed that the FIFA World Cup 2026 will be held as per its scheduled timeline despite ongoing global tensions.

Infantino stated that FIFA looks forward to all participating teams competing in the World Cup with a spirit of mutual respect.

Expressing solidarity with people affected by war, he said that while FIFA cannot resolve geopolitical conflicts, it remains committed to uniting people and promoting peace through football.

It is worth noting that Iran had requested to shift its World Cup matches from the United States to Mexico, but FIFA rejected the request.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place from June 11 to July 19 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.