2026 World Cup countdown begins amid security concerns and Iran participation questions
With 100 days until the 2026 World Cup, organizers face security challenges, funding issues, and uncertainty over Iran's participation amid regional conflicts.
Officials marked 100 days until the 2026 FIFA World Cup kicks off on June 11, with the tournament set to be held across the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the first time. The expanded tournament will feature a record 48 teams, up from 32 in the previous World Cup, and is expected to attract millions of fans to venues across North America.
Iran's participation remains uncertain amid ongoing regional conflicts involving the United States and Israel. Iran was notably absent from a FIFA planning summit held this week in Atlanta for World Cup participants. When asked about Iran's potential participation, President Donald Trump told reporters he does not care whether the country competes, stating Iran is "a very badly defeated country" that is "running on fumes." U.S. Soccer CEO J.T. Batson has indicated that both he and FIFA President Gianni Infantino share the goal of having Iran participate in the tournament.
Security preparations are ramping up across host nations. Mexico announced plans to deploy nearly 100,000 security personnel to protect fans during the tournament, responding to ongoing concerns about cartel violence in the country. In the United States, funding debates continue, with some host cities facing budget shortfalls for security and infrastructure needs.
Logistical challenges are emerging in several host cities. New York business leaders have warned that the city lacks sufficient hotel capacity for the influx of visitors, calling for suspension of Airbnb restrictions to accommodate demand. Officials in Foxborough, Massachusetts, which will host games at the Boston area stadium, are engaged in ongoing discussions about funding gaps for World Cup preparations.
The tournament celebration reached a symbolic milestone Tuesday when New York's Empire State Building was illuminated in the colors of the three host nations' flags. Meanwhile, Inter Miami and captain Lionel Messi visited the White House to celebrate their recent MLS Cup championship, with President Trump asking the audience to compare Messi to Brazilian legend Pelé.