FIFA President Downplays World Cup Ticket and Visa Controversies, Praises Trump's Role
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, at a press conference on the eve of the World Cup, downplayed criticism over high ticket prices and visa controversies, and strongly defended the tournament's organization, praising US President Donald Trump's crucial role.
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MEXICO CITY (Reuters) - FIFA President Gianni Infantino on Tuesday downplayed criticism over visa controversies and high ticket prices at a press conference on the eve of the World Cup, and strongly defended the organization of the tournament.
Speaking at a press conference at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Infantino addressed the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, featuring 48 teams, which kicks off on Wednesday.
Infantino and FIFA have faced recent criticism over the exorbitant ticket prices for the World Cup and the tightening of immigration policies by US President Donald Trump, which led to a top Somali referee, Iranian team officials, and fans being denied entry into the United States.
Infantino emphasized that while some tickets for this World Cup cost over $30,000, the pricing is standard, and after criticism, organizers released a small number of $60 tickets.
"I would say that our $60 entry ticket is the lowest entry price of any postseason game in all US sports," he said.
"Our average ticket price is under $500, which is also one of the lowest average ticket prices in US sports."
Regarding Somali referee Omar Artan being denied entry into the US upon arriving at Miami International Airport on June 6, Infantino called the situation "regrettable."
"We cannot control everything... Sometimes it's good to calm down and relax. We try to handle everything and solve various problems. Sometimes shouting immediately makes the problem harder to solve," he added.
Artan was named the Best Male Referee of the Year by the Confederation of African Football last year. A US State Department official said he was "associated with suspected terrorist group members" and therefore "ineligible for entry into the United States." FIFA confirmed he will no longer officiate at the World Cup.
Furthermore, Infantino argued that Iran's participation in the World Cup despite military tensions with the US is a major victory for FIFA.
"Many people said Iran couldn't participate in the World Cup. It was indeed a big challenge and not easy, but I don't know who else besides us could ensure Iran's participation under such difficult-to-control circumstances," he said.
Infantino's close relationship with US President Donald Trump has also drawn attention. During the World Cup preparation process, Infantino emphasized Trump's key role.
"Without his participation and involvement, simply put, it would not have been possible to host the World Cup in the United States," Infantino said.
Trump confirmed on Monday that he will attend matches. He did not specify which games he will attend, but Infantino expects Trump to personally present the trophy to the winning team at the final on July 19. (Reporting by Central News Agency)
Speaking at a press conference at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, Infantino addressed the tournament co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, featuring 48 teams, which kicks off on Wednesday.
Infantino and FIFA have faced recent criticism over the exorbitant ticket prices for the World Cup and the tightening of immigration policies by US President Donald Trump, which led to a top Somali referee, Iranian team officials, and fans being denied entry into the United States.
Infantino emphasized that while some tickets for this World Cup cost over $30,000, the pricing is standard, and after criticism, organizers released a small number of $60 tickets.
"I would say that our $60 entry ticket is the lowest entry price of any postseason game in all US sports," he said.
"Our average ticket price is under $500, which is also one of the lowest average ticket prices in US sports."
Regarding Somali referee Omar Artan being denied entry into the US upon arriving at Miami International Airport on June 6, Infantino called the situation "regrettable."
"We cannot control everything... Sometimes it's good to calm down and relax. We try to handle everything and solve various problems. Sometimes shouting immediately makes the problem harder to solve," he added.
Artan was named the Best Male Referee of the Year by the Confederation of African Football last year. A US State Department official said he was "associated with suspected terrorist group members" and therefore "ineligible for entry into the United States." FIFA confirmed he will no longer officiate at the World Cup.
Furthermore, Infantino argued that Iran's participation in the World Cup despite military tensions with the US is a major victory for FIFA.
"Many people said Iran couldn't participate in the World Cup. It was indeed a big challenge and not easy, but I don't know who else besides us could ensure Iran's participation under such difficult-to-control circumstances," he said.
Infantino's close relationship with US President Donald Trump has also drawn attention. During the World Cup preparation process, Infantino emphasized Trump's key role.
"Without his participation and involvement, simply put, it would not have been possible to host the World Cup in the United States," Infantino said.
Trump confirmed on Monday that he will attend matches. He did not specify which games he will attend, but Infantino expects Trump to personally present the trophy to the winning team at the final on July 19. (Reporting by Central News Agency)
FAQ
What did the FIFA president say about ticket prices?
He stated that the $60 entry fee is the lowest postseason price in US sports, and the average price under $500 is also among the lowest.
Why was the Somali referee denied entry?
The US State Department said he was associated with suspected terrorist group members, making him ineligible for entry.
Will President Trump attend the final?
Trump confirmed he will attend matches but didn't specify which. Infantino expects him to present the trophy at the final.