FIFA World Cup opens under shadow of politics and visa disputes

The 2026 FIFA World Cup begins today with Mexico facing South Africa in Mexico City, launching the largest tournament in the competition’s history and one already shaped by political disputes, visa controversies and security concerns. For the first time, 48 teams will compete in the tournament, an increase from 32 at the previous edition in Qatar. The expansion raises the number of matches from 64 to 104 and adds an extra knockout round. Teams reaching the final will play eight matches instead of seven.