World Cup 2026: The 11 controversies that have dogged FIFA

Ticket prices: Perhaps the most disputed aspect of the tournament, fans' loyalty has been exploited by FIFA with their extortionate pricing of match tickets . From low-key group stage clashes with minnow nations to enthralling knockout stage matches, the prices of tickets have remained relatively consistent throughout the tournament but are reaching a new stratosphere with tickets for Sunday’s showpiece final starting at an incredible $7,000. 3rd place head-to-head new rules: The expanded 48-team tournament led to FIFA adjusting group stage rules where head-to-head records were favoured as opposed to goal difference, a crucial amendment given how the best third-place nations qualify for the round of 32. Nonetheless, this controversial rule change ultimately didn’t impact any nations. Banned referee: One of the biggest talking points before a ball was even kicked not just in football but around the globe, Somalian referee Omar Artan was denied entry to the USA.