FIFA, U.S. host cities, Rick Larsen
11 June 2026

U.S. host cities are facing growing frustration over World Cup costs, with local committees carrying expenses linked to transport, safety, security, fan zones and tournament logistics. FIFA is expected to collect most major revenue streams from the event.

The Athletic reports cities want clearer cost sharing, revenue participation and limits on obligations before future tournaments. The issue has intensified after high transport prices, public subsidies and criticism that taxpayers are absorbing costs while FIFA’s revenue surges.

Football Association of Wales, UEFA, Wales
11 June 2026

The Football Association of Wales has urged UEFA to expand the Women’s European Championship from 16 teams to 24. Wales want the women’s tournament aligned with the men’s format after reaching their first major finals at Euro 2025.

The FAW believes expansion would widen opportunity, strengthen development and reflect growing standards across Europe. Wales are also chasing a first Women’s World Cup place, making tournament access and long-term competitive pathways central to their argument.

Haiti, FIFA, Saeta, Scotland
10 June 2026

Haiti have been forced to alter their World Cup kit four days before facing Scotland after FIFA ruled the shirt’s Battle of Vertieres imagery breached equipment regulations. The design had appeared during Haiti’s pre-tournament friendlies.

Manufacturer Saeta said the shirt was intended as a tribute to Haiti’s future and not a political statement, but accepted FIFA’s interpretation. Haiti begin their first World Cup campaign in 52 years against Scotland in Boston.

Gianni Infantino, FIFA, Omar Artan, Iran
10 June 2026

Gianni Infantino defended FIFA’s handling of World Cup visa and entry controversies after Somali referee Omar Artan was refused admission to the United States and Iran faced restrictions around its tournament base, ticket allocation and delegation access.

Infantino said FIFA cannot dictate government border decisions and urged critics to chill and relax, drawing criticism for offering limited public support to affected officials, teams and fans before Mexico face South Africa in the opener.

FIFA, FIFPro, Gianni Infantino, Sergio Marchi
10 June 2026

FIFA and global players’ union FIFPro have agreed a landmark governance deal giving players greater influence over transfer rules, welfare standards and major decisions. FIFPro will gain veto powers in key areas and observer access to FIFA Council.

The agreement requires FIFPro to withdraw legal claims against FIFA, while players gain stronger protection from abusive club practices such as isolated training, withheld passports and registration manipulation. Calendar concerns remain unresolved for some national player unions.

Jose Mourinho, Real Madrid, Alvaro Arbeloa
10 June 2026

Jose Mourinho is travelling to Spain to finalise his Real Madrid return on a three-year contract, with plans to begin work immediately. He will reportedly skip a welcoming ceremony and press conference until his contract formally starts.

Mourinho’s path was cleared after Real Madrid confirmed Alvaro Arbeloa’s departure following a short spell. The Portuguese coach is expected to head straight to the training ground and bring a five-person staff into the club.