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Radio France Internationale
Radio France Internationale
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RFI

Conflict and controversy hang over World Cup as 100-day countdown kicks off

World Cup Donald Trump United States Fifa Mexico Iran Mehdi Taj Canada the 2026 World Cup
Forty-eight teams will compete for the 2026 World Cup which takes place between 11 June and 19 July in the United States, Canada and Mexico. AFP - ULISES RUIZ

Tuesday marks 100 days until the start of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada. Iran's participation in the tournament is in doubt after American and Israeli armed forces launched strikes on the country, while controversy over ticket prices, drug wars in Mexico and travel bans imposed by United States President Donald Trump are also casting shadows over preparations.

Iran's soccer chief Mehdi Taj said he and senior government officials would assess whether the squad should take part in the competition, which begins on 11 June.

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