World Cup organisers are bracing for a tropical storm that could delay Germany's opening match against Curacao in Houston on Sunday, as Texas’s attorney general launches an investigation into claims FIFA misled supporters over ticket sales.
Local meteorologists have predicted up to a 70 per cent chance of thunder and lightning ahead of the Group E showdown at Houston Stadium, with up to three inches of rainfall expected. The stadium has a retractable roof, but officials are more concerned about disruption to travel. Strict lightning protocols will be implemented at the downtown Fan Festival, and visitors have been warned to prepare for sudden weather. The storm is part of a wider pattern of severe weather across the United States during the tournament, after England’s friendly with Costa Rica was delayed earlier this week due to rain in Florida.
“Texas investigates FIFA over ticket sales as tropical storm threatens Germany's World Cup opener in Houston.”
Meanwhile, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton is investigating allegations that FIFA misled supporters over tickets for games in Houston and Dallas. Fans claim premium seats costing over $10,000 were replaced with tickets offering less desirable views. Paxton said: “I will work to ensure that FIFA is engaging in ethical and honest business practices so that Texas fans are treated fairly. Sports have a unique power to bring people together, and FIFA must understand that Texans take their competition – and their consumer rights – seriously.”
The investigation focuses on reports that consumers who bought ‘Category 1’ seats expecting premium views later found their seats had been moved into sections originally designated as ‘Category 2’. Houston will host games featuring Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, while England and Lionel Messi’s Argentina are set to play in Dallas. FIFA president Gianni Infantino has insisted the organisation remains relaxed about potential legal investigations into ticket sales.
As fans prepare for potential disruption, BBC Sport has launched new app features for the tournament, including live match updates on lock screens, a 3D match experience, and a predictor game. The 3D tool, powered by technology from Immersiv.io, will go live for Canada’s first match against Bosnia & Herzegovina on Friday, 12 June at 20:00 BST. The predictor game gives fans the chance to win an official World Cup football signed by members of the BBC World Cup team.