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The 2026 World Cup is set to take place across 16 cities in the USA, Canada and Mexico.

But, despite an expanded format featuring 48 countries, the run-up to the biggest ever World Cup ever has come with no shortage of problems.

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There’s soaring match ticket and transport costs, safety concerns around extreme heat, plus the inescapable fact the US is at war with one of the countries competing - Iran.

Fifa is under investigation over its sky-rocketing ticket fees, while Donald Trump has been accused by human rights organisations of ‘sportswashing’.

Gianni Infantino, Fifa’s President, last month defended the ticket pricing, saying it was reflective of the market rates.

In this episode of the breakdown, we speak to The Athletic’s Adam Crafton to explore the controversy behind the buildup to the World Cup - and what there is to look forward to on the pitch.

Fifa said it was "committed to protecting" the health and safety of players, referees, fans, volunteers and staff, and that climate-related risks were assessed "as part of overall tournament planning" and managed in "close coordination" with host cities, stadium authorities and national agencies.

The organisation added that it was "aware of and monitoring the situation" regarding the recent Ebola outbreak and that it was in close communication with the Congo DR Football Association to ensure the team was "made aware of all medical and security guidance"
It said it was working with host countries' governments and the World Health Organization to ensure a "safe and secure tournament".

FMA Music:

Damiano Baldoni - Chillout Loop
Loyalty Freak Music - Waiting TTTT
HoliznaRAPS - H O L I Z N A (Instrumental)

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0:00 Introduction
0:54 Most expensive World Cup ever?
1:55 Weather
2:12 Politics
2:50 Ebola
3:48 Too many problems?
4:09 Interview with Adam Crafton
13:36 Nations at war
19:22 Extreme heat risks
23:43 Football vs politics
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