As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, concerns regarding the effects of stringent U.S. immigration policies on this significant event have emerged. Victor Montagliani, the president of CONCACAF and a FIFA vice-president, sought to alleviate these concerns during a recent interview.
Speaking to the AFP on March 20, Montagliani acknowledged the seriousness of the issue, noting, “It’s a natural thing. Even during the last World Cup in Qatar, my friends were calling me worried, saying, ‘Hey, I’m concerned about going there for whatever reason.’ And in the end, everything was fine.” His comments came in light of several recent border incidents that raised eyebrows, including the deportation of a French space scientist and detentions involving citizens from Germany and the United Kingdom.
Montagliani expressed confidence that any immigration concerns would be fully resolved by the time the World Cup kicks off in 2026, when for the first time, 48 teams will compete. He emphasized, “I have full confidence that when the time comes—be it for the participating teams or their fans—there will be a mechanism in place to address any situation.”
While discussing the current landscape of U.S. immigration policies, he noted, “I understand the policies of the administration [of President Donald Trump]. But I trust that when we arrive at the point we need to reach, in 16 months, we’ll be alright.”
One high-profile incident that stirred diplomatic concerns involved the deportation of a French scientist who faced scrutiny at a Houston airport. The French Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a statement expressing its regret over the incident, underlining its implications for international relations.
In addition to addressing immigration worries, Montagliani noted that the World Cup organizers were comfortable cooperating with the current Trump administration amid ongoing trade tensions between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. “If you are in the business of football and you are a leader in football, it is part of our job to deal with any administration,” he remarked. “No matter where events are organized, you deal with these realities.” He referenced similar challenges faced during the last two World Cups held in Qatar and Russia.
Montogliani asserted, “We need to focus on the World Cup, on football. And any challenges that arise, we will address accordingly.” His perspective underlines the complexities of organizing large-scale international events like the World Cup, where geopolitical tensions can influence logistics.
Turning to the commercial aspect of the upcoming World Cup, enthusiasm is sky-high for the Mexican National Team’s new jersey, with demand for 5 million units estimated for the tournament. Grupo Martex, a Mexican company known for its textile manufacturing abilities, has ramped up operations in Irapuato to meet this demand.
The new jersey, celebrated for its striking black and gold colors—an homage to the Golden Age of Mexican cinema and music—was developed in partnership with Adidas. Santiago Martí Ascencio, the head of Grupo Martex, oversees the production, which has seen positive reception among fans.
“We are proud to continue being part of the history of the Mexican National Team, providing our expertise and technology in the manufacturing of their uniforms,” said Ascencio. He highlighted that sustainability and comfort were central to this new jersey's design. This initiative aligns with FIFA’s focus on making football more sustainable.
Grupo Martex invested $35 million to modernize its machinery and infrastructure to fulfill the expected demand for Mexico's World Cup jersey. The production process employs advanced manufacturing techniques, including the use of recycled polyester derived from PET bottles, aimed at minimizing the environmental impact.
The jersey is set to make its official debut on March 20, during the Concacaf Nations League semifinals against Canada, at SoFi Stadium in California. Following this, it will also be worn during the 2025 Gold Cup, further solidifying its role in national pride and identity.
Montagliani’s confidence in resolving immigration issues, paired with Grupo Martex’s proactive response to jersey demands, highlights a solidifying foundation for the upcoming World Cup. As international scrutiny mounts, the football community remains eager in anticipation of a successful tournament that promises to bring nations together.
