Council of Europe questions World Cup's integrity after controversial 2026 tournament
The Council of Europe has criticized FIFA over the integrity of the 2026 World Cup, citing political interference and questionable commercial partnerships. Specifically, officials pointed to the suspension of a player ban following pressure from US President Donald Trump and concerns over gambling-related sponsorships.
Why it matters
This highlights the intersection of global sports governance, political influence, and the ethics of commercialization in major international events.
US President Donald Trump watches the 2026 World Cup final with FIFA boss Gianni Infantino. ( Getty Images: Eva Marie Uzcategui )
The Council of Europe, which includes 46 nations, says money and power are a crisis for FIFA and the World Cup.
The council highlighted FIFA suspending a ban for American attacker Folarin Balogun after pressure from US President Donald Trump.
The next World Cup will be held across three different continents in 2030.
Link copied Share Share article Europe's top human rights body has questioned the integrity of the World Cup and urged FIFA to help build a stronger framework for the 2030 edition, which will be played mostly in Spain and Portugal.
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