FIFA World Cup

Former England striker Michael Owen has predicted that France will win the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing their superior talent despite England's strong qualification campaign. He expressed concerns about England's defensive vulnerabilities and the challenging playing conditions in North America. Owen made these comments while being announced as a brand ambassador for South African betting company Hollywoodbets.

January 16, 2026 Reported by AI

FIFA has issued a statement addressing concerns over U.S. visa policies affecting fans attending the 2026 World Cup, emphasizing that match tickets do not guarantee entry to host countries. The Trump administration's recent pause on immigrant visa processing for 75 countries includes several World Cup participants, though tourist visas remain unaffected for now. Officials urge early applications to navigate potential delays.

President Donald Trump received the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C. FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented the award, honoring Trump's efforts toward global peace. The event also unveiled the groups for the expanded 48-team tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

December 05, 2025 Reported by AI

The United States Men's National Team will headline Group D at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, facing Paraguay, Australia and a European playoff winner. The draw took place at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C., revealing the Americans' opening match against Paraguay on June 12 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles. As co-hosts, the U.S. avoided several top European and South American powerhouses in the group stage.

Ghana's Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Adams, has signaled interest in a joint bid with Nigeria and Côte d’Ivoire to host the FIFA World Cup after 2034. This potential partnership builds on the countries' shared history of co-hosting major tournaments and their strong football legacies. Adams highlighted the growing trend of multi-nation bids as an opportunity for West Africa.

November 20, 2025 Reported by AI

FIFA announced a new initiative on November 17 to expedite visa interviews for international ticket holders attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. The program, known as the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System or FIFA PASS, aims to facilitate travel for fans. However, U.S. travel bans may prevent citizens from two qualifying countries from attending the event.