The tournament we all know and love, the World Cup, is one of the biggest sporting events across the globe. The stability of Canada and the US, along with the passion and expertise of Mexico made North America the safest and easiest choice for hosting, especially after the controversial choices of Russia and Qatar for previous cups. Despite these original theories, there are certain geopolitical tensions that pose a threat to the atmosphere of the upcoming tournament.

Starting with the obvious: the US, Israel, and Iran conflict. First and foremost, there is a question on whether Iran will participate or not. Iran has scheduled games and has not yet withdrawn from the tournament, but it is unclear whether this will remain a reality. The president of the Iranian football federation stated that Iran plans to “boycott the United States, but not the World Cup”. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has stood strong in his effort to facilitate Iran’s participation, however when the Iranian federation formally asked FIFA to move their games to Mexico, their request was denied. In a recent statement, Donald Trump described how it wouldn’t be “appropriate” for the Iranian team to attend “for their own life and safety.” This comment came soon after Infantino spoke with Trump and urged him to allow the team to compete. With or without participation, there is still a potential for military threats and escalation from Iranian forces. Additionally, high-profile international events, such as this tournament, can provide symbolic platforms for violence or demonstrations such as protests. 

For the 78 matches being played in the U.S. (three quarters of all tournament matches), certain policies of the current administration may become a barrier for fans and players alike. Coming to the U.S. from abroad poses challenges, as Trump’s last year set two proclamations restricting or limiting the entry of nationals from 39 countries, including many countries participating in the games. In terms of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Acting Director Todd Lyons commented that his agency would play a “key part” in securing the tournament. ICE staff around the stadiums, airports and tournament cities could impose fear and hesitation to fans and players alike: “the presence of ICE could make some spectators avoid the games”, stated NBC Washington. On top of this, a union representing hospitality workers at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles threatened to strike during matches unless FIFA leaders addressed their concerns about ICE presence. Infantino has been reported to show growing concern over the situation, allegedly having considered asking President Trump for a “moratorium on ICE raids” across the country during the tournament. 

Finally, violence and threats in Mexico raise concerns of safety. There are growing fears based on a number of recent violent events, including a recent open fire carried out by an attacker atop a UNESCO World Heritage Site on tourists below, as well as the killing of a major drug lord. More than 70 individuals passed away in the state of Jalisco, Mexico, amidst the attempt to capture the notorious leader of one of the fastest-growing criminal networks in Mexico, “known for trafficking fentanyl, methamphetamine and cocaine to the United States.” Nearly 3 million tourists are expected to visit Jalisco for the four world cup matches set in Guadalajara, the capital. This is just one of many examples of exploding drug and gang violence in tournament cities throughout the country. This poses risks not only towards attendance, but also for the safety of teams and spectators alike throughout the cup. 

With around a week and a half until the first matches are played, this World Cup is set to be one for the books. Despite our greatest wishes to have a peaceful and civilized tournament, it is important to be aware of how our current geopolitical climate will affect fans, players, coaches, workers and viewers. •