FIFA President Gianni Infantino declared the upcoming 48-team World Cup as the most expansive global event ever created, speaking at a press conference at the Azteca Stadium in Mexico City on June 11, 2026.
His statements came just hours before the opening match between Mexico and South Africa, which launches the tournament across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
"This will be the biggest, best, greatest and most inclusive World Cup in FIFA history. Probably even the biggest event in the history of mankind," Infantino said.
The FIFA chief revisited past controversies by recalling his experiences during the previous tournament in Qatar four years ago.
"Today I feel Qatari," he said, adding that he felt Arab, African, gay, disabled, and a migrant worker during that period.
Infantino clarified that his previous statements aimed to represent underserved communities worldwide rather than spark political debates.
"There are always problems with a tournament of this size.
I felt very strongly that I had to give a voice to the majority in the world that was not heard.
The southern hemisphere, or whatever you want to call it," he stated.
European football officials noted that their operational perspectives have evolved following past tournaments.
"We have learned something from Qatar," said Marianne van Leeuwen, KNVB Director.
"From a Dutch perspective we mean something very well, but it can be understood differently in the rest of the world.
We have become more cautious.
Still very socially involved, but we don't want to be a preacher with a raised finger," she added.
Infantino also addressed the visa rejection of Somali referee Omar Artan by US immigration authorities.
"Of course it is unfortunate what happened with Omar, the referee from Somalia," Infantino admitted, noting that world governance organizations face operational limits regarding domestic border control policies.
"But we cannot control everything," he said.
He highlighted his personal intervention regarding the Iranian national team amidst geopolitical tensions.
"If necessary, I will come by bus to Tehran to drive you there," Infantino stated.
Infantino concluded by addressing media queries regarding domestic entry policies for future tournaments.
"In 2035 the Women's World Cup will probably take place in Great Britain.
Would you think it normal if FIFA dictated to the British who they should let in and who not?"
he asked.
