FIFA vice-president Victor Montagliani has brushed aside political and security concerns ahead of this summer’s World Cup in the US, Mexico, and Canada, saying such issues are routine before major tournaments.
Montagliani noted that past World Cups — including Argentina 1978 under military rule — faced similar scrutiny. Current worries include visa restrictions, gang violence in Mexico, and Iran’s refusal to play in the US after safety warnings.
“Every World Cup has geopolitical issues. Once the ball starts rolling, people focus on the game,” he said at the Business of Soccer conference.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has faced criticism for his ties to President Donald Trump, but Montagliani stressed cooperation with host governments is essential to ensure fan safety.
