Ex-FIFA Chief Criticizes U.S. for Politicizing Soccer Before World Cup
Sepp Blatter, the former FIFA president, is vocal about perceived injustices in the world of soccer, especially regarding the upcoming 2026 World Cup. In an interview with Radio-Canada, Blatter expressed concern over the political influence from the United States that he feels has tarnished the spirit of the game.
U.S. Politicization of Soccer
Blatter, who served as FIFA president from 1998 until 2015, criticized the United States for what he deems an unfair advantage in hosting the World Cup. He noted that the U.S. is set to host 78 games, overshadowing Canada and Mexico, each hosting only 13 games.
Disparity in World Cup Hosting
Blatter argued that this allocation reflects a deeper issue. “It’s not right,” he stated, expressing that these arrangements contradict the principles of equitable representation in soccer.
- Host countries and their game allocation for 2026:
- United States: 78 games
- Canada: 13 games
- Mexico: 13 games
Reactions to FIFA Governance
During the interview, Blatter expressed frustration with the current leadership, particularly highlighting the relationship between U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. He believes this partnership has led to an era where financial motives overshadow the integrity of football.
Concerns Over Financial Exploitation
Blatter criticized FIFA’s approach to ticket pricing for the upcoming World Cup, which he compared to a “slot machine,” emphasizing a profit-driven model. He noted that the high costs alienate fans, contradicting the event’s foundational values.
Political Climate Impacting Soccer
Blatter also lamented the cultural implications of U.S. policies influencing soccer, asserting that the sport increasingly mirrors political agendas. He urged FIFA members to take a stand against this trend, advocating for the sport’s independence.
Call for Action
Echoing a sentiment of urgency, Blatter stated, “Why don’t we stand up?” highlighting the need for FIFA to uphold its core values amidst political pressures.
Future of the World Cup and Public Sentiment
As the World Cup approaches, Blatter remains hopeful but critical. He expressed solidarity with fans who feel marginalized by current policies, particularly the visa restrictions that may limit attendance from certain countries, such as Haiti. “A World Cup should not be organized in a country that does not grant visas to everyone,” he remarked.
Despite his criticisms, Blatter is not in favor of a boycott by national teams, calling it ineffective. He looks forward to potentially attending matches in Canada or Mexico, stating, “My daughter would like to go to Canada. She is trying to find tickets.”
In conclusion, Blatter’s critique of American influence in soccer sheds light on the ongoing tensions within FIFA and the broader implications for the sport ahead of the landmark World Cup.
