World Cup 2026: How refereeing, politics and visa disputes overshadowed football

What should have been a celebration of football has instead become a tournament defined by off-field controversy. From disputed refereeing decisions to political disputes and travel restrictions, the 2026 World Cup has generated as many headlines away from the pitch as on it.

The 2026 World Cup has delivered memorable football, but much of the attention has centred on controversy. Claims of refereeing bias, dubbed "VARgentina" by critics, have fuelled widespread debate, despite FIFA rejecting allegations of favouritism. Plus scrutiny over U.S. visa restrictions affecting teams, officials and fans, while political intervention and racism have added to growing criticism of FIFA's governance ahead of the final.

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