The 2026 World Cup, as it approaches its midway point, is generating as much discussion off the field as on it, with several controversies surrounding player decisions, broadcasting, refereeing, and the tournament's very structure. These incidents and debates have drawn significant attention, overshadowing some of the on-field successes.
Ivory Coast striker Elye Wahi found himself at the center of a visa scandal upon his arrival. Despite being in form for his club Nice, Wahi was initially denied entry into Canada due to allegations of spot-fixing in Ligue 1 matches. After an investigation, he was eventually granted entry and played a role in Ivory Coast's qualification for the knockout stages for the first time.
In the broadcast booth, ITV faced criticism for the unconventional setting of their analysis studio. USA Women's manager Emma Hayes, providing expert commentary, was positioned in a studio that resembled a kitchen, leading some viewers to accuse the broadcaster of sexism. Hayes acknowledged the commentary with a quip about viewers focusing on her tactics board, a notable moment during the tournament's coverage.
Belgian player Jeremy Doku also sparked controversy after announcing his intention to leave the World Cup to be present for the birth of his first child. Despite being a key player for Belgium, he faced backlash from some corners, with one French journalist describing childbirth as a moment where the father is "useless" and suggesting Doku was wasting a significant opportunity. Doku has since returned to the team after the successful birth of his child.
The treatment of the Iranian national team has also been a point of contention. Amid ongoing political tensions, Iran's team was reportedly denied a training base in the United States, forcing them to train in Tijuana, Mexico, despite their matches being held across the border. Players and staff were initially granted only 24-hour visas for each game, a period later extended to 48 hours. Iran filed a formal complaint to FIFA regarding these restrictions, with manager Amir Ghalenoei describing his team as the "most oppressed in the World Cup."
Refereeing decisions and new FIFA regulations have also led to controversy. Paraguay's Miguel Almiron became the first player in World Cup history to be sent off under new FIFA rules after covering his mouth during a confrontation with a Turkish defender. The decision, which resulted in a one-match ban, was heavily criticized, leading to the suspension of a Paraguayan commentator. Separately, Qatar's Assim Madibo received a five-match ban for a tackle that broke an opponent's leg.
FIFA's Expanded Format Under Scrutiny
Perhaps the most significant area of debate is the World Cup's new 48-team format and its revised group stage qualification rules. The introduction of a round of 32, where eight of the best third-placed teams advance alongside the top two from each group, has been criticized for a perceived lack of jeopardy in some final group matches. Matches between teams seemingly assured of progression have led to accusations of passive play, reminiscent of the "Disgrace of Gijon" in 1982, where a mutually beneficial result between West Germany and Austria eliminated Algeria.
In one instance, a match between Austria and Algeria in Group J has raised concerns that both teams might prefer a specific outcome, potentially a draw or a narrow loss, to secure a more favorable knockout stage opponent. This strategic maneuvering, driven by the new format, has led to debates about the integrity and excitement of the group stages.
Further complicating matters, head-to-head records now supersede goal difference as the primary tiebreaker. This change has rendered many final group games less critical, with teams like Turkey and Haiti playing matches with little consequence for their tournament progression after earlier results. While the expanded format may lead to more exciting knockout football, the changes are undoubtedly sparking considerable debate and conversation throughout the tournament.