Zurich: Former President of the Federation of International Football Associations (FIFA), Sepp Blatter, has joined calls for fans to snub the 2026 World Cup over security concerns. The comments came after Swiss anti-corruption lawyer Mark Pieth, who worked with Blatter at FIFA, suggested that, due to insecurity in the United States, including alleged abuses by immigration services and persistent protests by aggrieved citizens, the country is not safe to host the tournament.
According to Ghana Web, the lawyer noted that, given the unrest and chaotic incidents in the US, it would not be prudent for football fans to risk their lives, urging them to avoid attending the competition. He expressed concerns about the marginalization of political opponents and other domestic issues, advising fans to steer clear of the United States and instead watch the tournament on television.
Sepp Blatter commented on the calls for a boycott, indicating his full agreement with Pieth's advice for fans to avoid the tournament. Blatter shared his support for Pieth's concerns on social media, as reported by The Guardian, aligning himself with the sentiment that the safety of fans should be prioritized.
Blatter's endorsement of the boycott is notable given his history in football governance. He resigned as FIFA President in 2015 amid corruption scandals, with Gianni Infantino succeeding him. Despite his resignation, Blatter and former UEFA President Michel Platini were acquitted in 2025 over charges related to a delayed payment of 2 million Swiss francs.