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One Year to the 2026 World Cup: Uncertainty, Turf Troubles, and Political Tensions

Posted : 11 June 2025

With just one year remaining until the 2026 World Cup kicks off at Mexico City's historic Azteca Stadium, North America's preparations appear far from complete. While excitement builds for the largest tournament in FIFA history—featuring 48 teams across the United States, Canada, and Mexico—issues surrounding infrastructure, particularly stadium surfaces, have drawn scrutiny.

 

Eleven of the host venues in the U.S. were built for American football and now face challenges adapting to FIFA’s natural grass requirement. Attempts during the Copa America to retrofit turf were underwhelming, prompting concerns from players and coaches about playability and safety.

 

The playing surfaces are just one element of a broader organizational struggle. Stadiums like MetLife in New Jersey, which will host the final, were not designed for soccer and face complications growing natural grass under covered roofs.

 

 Experimental solutions involving hybrid turf systems are being considered, but these require immense resources and continuous testing. Meanwhile, key logistical details remain unconfirmed, such as ticket sale dates, team base allocations, and venue-specific arrangements. FIFA officials have been unable to provide answers, leaving fans and media uncertain as the countdown continues.

 

Further complicating matters is the political climate in the United States. A recent executive order by President Trump restricting entry from several countries—some still in World Cup qualification contention—raises the possibility of international fans being denied entry. Although athletes and team staff are exempt, supporters from affected nations could face significant travel barriers.

 

These challenges, combined with widespread venue distribution and the lack of a unifying atmosphere, threaten to dampen the festive spirit typically associated with World Cup tournaments. As the world awaits, doubts persist over North America’s readiness to host football’s biggest stage.

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