AustraliaSports9 days ago

As the World Cup begins, lets remember FIFA’s ‘apolitical’ farce didn’t start and end with Trump

The article discusses the beginning of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Mexico, highlighting the controversial lead-up to the event and referencing past issues involving FIFA leadership, including former U.S. President Donald Trump. It mentions the opening match at the Estadio Azteca, where Mexico defeated South Africa in a dramatic game with multiple player dismissals.

The custodians of the beautiful game have always had some ugly friends.

Jun 12, 2026

6 min read

US President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino (Image: AP/Jim Watson)

Overnight, after a fractious and controversial lead-up, the 23rd men’s FIFA World Cup kicked off in the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City. The home team, one of three host nations for this year’s tournament alongside Canada and the US, won a dramatic game against South Africa, in which three players were eventually sent off, in front of 80,000 roaring fans.

The Azteca is one of the great venues in world football; it is where Pelé lifted his third World Cup in 1970, and Diego Maradona scored two of the most notorious goals of the 20th century within roughly five minutes against England in 1986.

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CrikeyIndependentCenter9 days ago

As the World Cup begins, lets remember FIFA’s ‘apolitical’ farce didn’t start and end with Trump

Bias read (Center): The article focuses on sports events and does not take a clear stance on any political issue. It provides factual information about the World Cup's opening match without apparent bias or ideological framing.