100 days from the 2026 World Cup, the event is in great danger

2026-03-03 23:42:50 / SPORT ALFA PRESS

100 days from the 2026 World Cup, the event is in great danger

There are only 100 days left until the 2026 World Cup, but geopolitical tensions and growing concerns are casting a shadow over the development of one of the world's biggest sporting events, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico with 48 national teams, 104 matches and 16 stadiums.

1. Iran's participation remains uncertain

Iran, which had secured a place in the World Cup and was drawn in Group G, may now be unable to participate due to the escalation of the conflict between the United States and Iran. Air strikes by the United States and Israel and Iranian retaliation have put the team's travel to the tournament in doubt, especially for the first matches scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle in June. The president of the Iranian federation said that "it seems difficult to look forward to the World Cup with optimism", leaving open the possibility of a withdrawal. If Iran withdraws, FIFA could consider replacing it with other teams such as Iraq or the United Arab Emirates, according to the competition's rules.

2. Security and terrorism raise concerns

Due to tensions in the Middle East and the possibility of escalating attacks, US authorities have announced increased security measures in the host cities of the World Cup. Analysts warn of an increased risk of terrorism and possible backlash due to conflicts, making securing spectators a major challenge.

3. Political problems beyond Iran

In addition to concerns about Iran's participation, challenges with US immigration policies, including visa restrictions for some countries, have created uncertainty for fans wishing to travel to the games. These political tensions have sparked discussions about possible boycotts or alternative travel options to ensure the sustainability of public attendance.

4. Security in host countries

In Mexico, waves of violence linked to drug cartels, especially after the killing of one of the leaders of the largest gangs, have added to concerns about the safety of spectators during matches scheduled in cities such as Monterrey, Mexico City and Guadalajara.

5. The issue of Greenland, an autonomous Danish territory , is also very important, as it has been targeted by the control of US President Donald Trump. It is still unclear whether Denmark will qualify; the qualifying matches will be decisive.

6. Possible boycott by Germany . In light of the tariff policies, Oke Göttlich, vice-president of the German Football Association (DVB) and president of St. Pauli, has supported a boycott as a form of political pressure, arguing that football can no longer be considered foreign to the host geopolitical context. The German government is choosing not to participate and is leaving the decision to the sports authorities.

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