Infantino calms tensions after Somali referee's visa refusal

Gianni Infantino chose his words carefully. Facing the emotions stirred by the denial of entry to the United States of a Somali referee, the FIFA president issued a call for calm. The official, selected to officiate at the 2026 World Cup, was denied entry by U.S. authorities. A decision that has sparked strong reactions in the world of football.

"Chill and relax," Infantino simply said during a press conference held this Wednesday. A concise, almost offhand phrase, aimed at defusing a controversy that threatens to escalate. The Swiss president of FIFA reiterated that the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, will proceed as planned. He also stressed that FIFA is working closely with U.S. authorities to resolve this administrative setback. The event, set to be the largest ever with 48 teams, remains under high diplomatic tension. The Somali referee in question, whose identity has not been disclosed, was due to officiate in one of the tournament’s matches. His temporary exclusion from U.S. territory raises questions about the smoothness of consular procedures for international officials. FIFA has not specified whether other referees or staff members could face similar denials. Infantino, however, reassured: “We are doing everything possible to ensure everything goes well.” A statement that leaves lingering doubts about the effectiveness of behind-the-scenes efforts. This issue comes as FIFA continues to make announcements reassuring about the event’s organization. Recently, the organization dismissed any scenario of replacing Iran at the World Cup, despite geopolitical tensions. Another reminder that the competition, scheduled for the summer of 2026, faces significant logistical and political challenges. Football federations and referees worldwide will now scrutinize every step of the organization with heightened attention. For now, U.S. authorities have not communicated the precise reasons for the visa denial. Speculation is rife: security concerns, administrative error, or political pressure? One thing is certain: FIFA and U.S. organizers must act quickly to prevent this setback from becoming a precedent.