FIFA’s former president Sepp Blatter resigned in 2015 amidst a wave of scandals. Now, he’s ruffled feathers again, this time telling soccer fans not to come to the U.S. for next year’s World Cup. The tournament takes place from June 11 to July 19. World Cup matches promise to be exhilarating in each of the 16 stadiums selected throughout the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Blatter’s remarks couldn’t possibly be more ill-timed than in the context of recent public discussions at all levels about safety and security here in the U.S. He went on to express a great deal of enthusiasm over the remarks of Swiss anti-corruption lawyer, Mark Pieth. Pieth had already been working with FIFA on potential reforms during Blatter’s presidency. Pieth cited incidents of violence and political repression in the U.S., including the killing of protester Renee Good by an American immigration agent in Minneapolis, as reasons for fans to reconsider their travel plans.
Blatter’s concerns echo Pieth’s sentiments, as he stated, “I think Mark Pieth is right to question this World Cup.” He expanded on his position by proposing that spectators would do just fine watching the games from their living room.
“For fans, just one piece of advice: avoid the United States! You’ll get a better view on television anyway. Upon arrival, fans should expect that if they don’t behave properly with the authorities, they will be immediately sent home. If they’re lucky …” – Sepp Blatter
Blatter was hardly shy from laying into the World Cup and the United States. He discussed the recent killing of U.S. citizen Alex Pretti. His remarks highlight the growing concerns about safety for international visitors in light of incidents involving immigration services and other authorities.
Blatter’s presidency of FIFA came crashing down in a corruption scandal, forcing him to resign and paving the way for his successor Gianni Infantino. To this end, since his appointment, Infantino has developed close relationships with several political leaders, most notably Donald Trump. Even Infantino’s predecessor, former UEFA chief Michel Platini, has decried the president’s autocratic leadership style. Infantino accused him of having “become more of an autocrat” whose favoritism now lies with the rich and powerful.
In 2022, Blatter and Platini were charged with corruption related to the payment. They were acquitted, after it came to light that Platini had received 2 million Swiss francs ($2.5 million) in 2011 for consultancy work. The resolution of this case has not done anything to rehabilitate Blatter’s controversial reputation. His outrageous comments on the World Cup make that mess even worse.
As the upcoming tournament date gets closer, the conversation about safety for overseas fans will intensify. At the same time, political climate within host nations will shift and evolve. Blatter’s comments shine a light on the very real difficulties of hosting international sporting events. These scenarios play out in the shadow of boiling global priorities and civil discord.