For the first time in 27 days, there are no World Cup matches. The schedule is clear, offering a rare pause in a tournament that has been as defined by controversy as by drama.
Just two days earlier, England produced a moment of national euphoria at the Azteca Stadium, beating Mexico 3-2 in the round of 16. Jude Bellingham scored twice in a match delayed by electric storms and played at 2,240 metres above sea level. “It’s the stuff of dreams,” said BBC commentator Guy Mowbray. England survived a red card for Jarell Quansah and two Mexican penalties, advancing to the quarter-finals.
“No World Cup matches for first time in 27 days amid growing FIFA controversy over Trump interference and governance”
But off the pitch, the sport’s governing body has faced mounting criticism. US President Donald Trump claimed on Monday that he was “the one that got them to do it” – referring to FIFA’s suspension of the red card ban on US striker Folarin Balogun ahead of their last-16 loss to Belgium. FIFA insisted the decision was made by its disciplinary committee, which has not ruled on any other red card review at this World Cup. Both the reviewing of red cards and any political interference are banned under FIFA’s own statutes.
Trump was awarded FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize in December – a unilateral move by FIFA president Gianni Infantino, according to reports – shortly before the US president started a war with tournament participant Iran. Sky-high ticket prices, visa refusals for fans, officials, players’ families and even a referee have added to the discontent.
Infantino, who may exceed the usual 12-year presidential term limit, appears unopposed. His decision to award the 2034 World Cup to Saudi Arabia – breaking the continent rotation system – has further eroded trust. “I don’t think the players are listened to that much,” said England striker Harry Kane last year.
With the tournament briefly paused, the silence offers a moment to reflect on a World Cup that has thrilled on the pitch – but left many questioning the integrity of the body that runs it.
