Extortionate tickets and matches moved at Trump’s whim: are you ready for the ‘greatest World Cup ever’? | Marina Hyde

The article discusses the concerns surrounding the upcoming 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, particularly the influence of U.S. President Donald Trump and the involvement of FIFA President Gianni Infantino. The author, Marina Hyde, expresses skepticism about the "greatest World Cup ever" claim, citing the extortionate ticket prices and the potential for matches to be moved at Trump's whim. She argues that while FIFA is willing to host tournaments in "violent autocracies," the organization might be forced to draw the line at venues run by Democrats or "communists" due to Trump's involvement. The article also delves into the history of FIFA's leadership, noting that Infantino's tenure is even more concerning than that of his predecessor, Sepp Blatter, who was embroiled in a corruption scandal. The author questions how FIFA could end up with an even "bigger horror" in charge of the governing body than the ones who came before. Overall, the article raises concerns about the politicization of the upcoming World Cup and the potential for the event to be influenced by the U.S. president and his relationship with the FIFA president.