• FIFA President Gianni Infantino defends visa handling ahead of the World Cup.
• Concerns raised over Somali referee denied entry into the U.S. despite valid visa.
• Infantino stands by ticket pricing, emphasizing it supports football development.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino defended the organization’s handling of visa issues just before the World Cup, asserting that while they strive to resolve problems, their authority does not extend into government decisions. Following visa issues impacting Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was barred from entering the United States even with a valid visa, Infantino stated, "We are not the kings of the world who can rule over governments and police forces. We are a sports organisation," according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, and Al Jazeera.

The incident with Artan highlighted the immigration challenges faced by international participants in the upcoming tournament, which runs from June 11 to July 19. Infantino reiterated that FIFA continues to seek solutions but reinforced that decisions regarding entry are ultimately made by national authorities. He responded to questions about regrets regarding the U.S. as a host nation, emphasizing that challenges are expected in events of such magnitude, stating, "There are issues; it's normal for an event of this magnitude," according to Reuters and Channel News Asia.

On another significant matter, Infantino addressed criticisms concerning FIFA’s ticket pricing, asserting that the starting price of $60 for a match is the lowest for any American sports playoff event. He explained that higher ticket demand, which exceeded expectations by a factor of ten, justifies the pricing structure, saying, "Every dollar that comes in goes back to the development of football," according to Channel News Asia and Al Jazeera.

Infantino has stressed the symbolic importance of the World Cup amid global tensions, noting that events like Iran's participation showcase football's potential to foster unity. He expressed optimism for the tournament, predicting it could be one of the most competitive in history, stating, "Let the celebration begin," according to Reuters, Channel News Asia, and Al Jazeera.