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As of early December 2025, US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has paused green card, citizenship, and asylum applications from nationals of 19 countries previously designated as high-risk under a 2025 travel ban. This follows a November attack in Washington by an Afghan national granted asylum. USCIS will conduct comprehensive reviews and interviews for immigrants from these countries who entered since January 2021, with no set date to lift the pause.
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On December 5, 2025, the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw took place at Washington's Kennedy Center, attended by US President Donald Trump. The expanded 48-team tournament, hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, will feature 12 groups of four teams. Scotland, having qualified after 28 years, awaits its group opponents. The event included celebrity hosts and performances, with final playoff teams to be decided in March 2026.
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On December 5, 2025, FIFA President Gianni Infantino awarded US President Donald Trump the first-ever FIFA Peace Prize during the 2026 World Cup draw ceremony in Washington DC. The prize recognizes Trump's efforts in brokering peace deals, including a Gaza ceasefire, despite criticism over his administration's military actions and human rights record. The event highlighted Infantino's close ties with Trump amid global controversy.
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The UK has submitted a bid to host the 2035 FIFA Women's World Cup, proposing 22 stadiums across 16 cities in England, Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. The tournament would feature 48 teams, 104 matches, and aim to be the most accessible ever, with Wembley Stadium set to host the final if successful.
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Iran reversed its decision to boycott the World Cup draw in Washington after initially refusing to participate due to US visa issues. Iran's coach Amir Ghalenoei will attend as the technical representative, following diplomatic tensions over visa denials linked to political disputes. The event highlights ongoing US-Iran tensions amid broader geopolitical conflicts.
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The US State Department has introduced new visa criteria targeting foreign workers involved in online censorship activities. The rules prioritize visitors for major sporting events like the World Cup and Olympics, while scrutinizing H-1B applicants for links to content moderation that suppresses free expression. The policy aims to control foreign influence and security risks.
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The US government is preparing for the 2026 World Cup across North America amid concerns over immigration policies and security. While efforts are underway to facilitate visas for fans and delegations, restrictions and rhetoric from President Trump raise questions about the event's welcoming spirit and safety measures.
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The US government has proposed requiring travelers from 42 countries to submit five years of social media data, email addresses, phone numbers, and family details before entry. The move, linked to upcoming events like the 2026 World Cup, faces criticism over privacy and potential impact on international visitors.
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At the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington, FIFA awarded Donald Trump its inaugural peace prize, citing his diplomatic efforts. Trump praised his achievements, claimed to have ended eight wars, and participated in the draw alongside world leaders, amid controversy and political tension.
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino's recent actions and appearances with Donald Trump highlight a shift towards autocratic alliances. The US World Cup ticket prices are rising sharply, and Infantino's political engagements suggest FIFA is adopting a more authoritarian stance, reflecting broader geopolitical trends.
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As of December 18, 2025, FIFA faces widespread criticism over high ticket prices for the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Prices for loyal fans can reach over $6,900 for attending all matches, with final tickets up to $8,680. FIFA introduced a limited $60 ticket tier, but only 10% of tickets per nation are at this price. Critics call the pricing 'extortionate' and urge FIFA to halt sales and reconsider.
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FIFA's ticket pricing for the 2026 World Cup has sparked criticism over high costs, especially for accessibility tickets. The organisation introduced lower-priced tickets for supporters, but critics say the measures are insufficient, with some tickets reselling at many times their face value. Supporters and officials call for further action.
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On January 18, 2026, Senegal defeated host Morocco 1-0 after extra time in a tense Africa Cup of Nations final in Rabat. The match featured a controversial late penalty awarded to Morocco, prompting Senegal players to briefly walk off in protest amid fan unrest. Senegal's Pape Gueye scored the winning goal in the 94th minute, securing Senegal's second AFCON title.
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During the Africa Cup final, Senegal players left the field after a controversial penalty awarded to Morocco, leading to fights and a 15-minute stoppage. Senegal's federation criticized security, ticketing, and fairness issues, while Thiaw expressed regret over the emotional reaction. The match resumed with Senegal ultimately losing.
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Senegal's national football team won the Africa Cup of Nations after a tense final against Morocco, with Pape Gueye scoring in extra time. The victory sparked nationwide celebrations, with the president praising the team and declaring a public holiday. The match was marked by protests and controversy over refereeing decisions.
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In January 2026, former President Trump sent a letter to Norway's Prime Minister linking his failed Nobel Peace Prize bid to his pursuit of Greenland. He claimed Denmark cannot protect Greenland from Russia or China and threatened tariffs on European allies opposing U.S. control. European leaders condemned the threats, affirming Greenland's sovereignty under Denmark.
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During the African Cup final in Rabat, Senegalese players walked off the pitch in protest after a late penalty was awarded to Morocco. The match resumed after delays, with Senegal winning in extra time. The incident drew condemnation from FIFA and CAF, highlighting issues of sportsmanship and crowd behavior.
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The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, faces political controversy as US President Trump discusses potential tariffs over Greenland, a move that risks straining relations with European allies. Sports officials emphasize the event's importance amid security concerns and political debates.
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European football officials and US city leaders are debating a potential boycott of the 2026 World Cup due to political tensions, including US actions in Greenland and concerns over human rights. Calls for discussion are growing, with some advocating serious consideration of a boycott, while others dismiss the threat as unlikely to impact the event.
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Over 500 million applications for World Cup tickets highlight unprecedented demand for the 2026 tournament in North America. With less than 2% of tickets available at face value, resale prices soar, prompting FIFA to hold a lottery. Fan zones and festivals are seen as alternative options amid high costs.
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Leading football figures, including Sepp Blatter, are calling for a boycott of the 2026 World Cup in the US amid concerns over security, civil rights, and political tensions. Critics cite recent incidents and US policies as reasons for the potential withdrawal of support and participation.
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FIFA president Gianni Infantino has suggested lifting the ban on Russia's international football participation, citing frustration and the lack of progress in ending the Ukraine war. Ukraine strongly opposes this, citing Russian military actions that have killed Ukrainian athletes. The debate highlights ongoing tensions over sports sanctions related to the Ukraine conflict, with Russia's return supported by Moscow and opposed by Kyiv.
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The 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan feature NHL players from multiple countries, including Connor McDavid and Leon Draisaitl, competing for their nations. This marks the return of top-tier international hockey after a 12-year hiatus, with teams from Europe and North America showcasing their talent amid ongoing geopolitical tensions.
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FIFA President Gianni Infantino was granted Lebanese citizenship by President Joseph Aoun during a visit to Beirut. Infantino, married to Lebanese citizen Lina al-Ashkar, visited the Interior Ministry to file documents and received his Lebanese passport. The move marks a rare exception under Lebanese law, which normally restricts citizenship transmission through women.
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Violence following the death of cartel leader Nemesio 'El Mencho' Oseguera has heightened security fears in Mexico, especially in Guadalajara, host city for the upcoming World Cup. Authorities are deploying advanced surveillance tools, but unrest persists, raising questions about safety for fans and players during the tournament.
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Amid ongoing cartel violence and the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, Mexico prepares to host 13 World Cup matches. Officials assure safety, but local residents and international teams remain cautious due to recent violence and instability in Jalisco, especially in Guadalajara, the tournament's host city.
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Following the killing of cartel leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, 'El Mencho,' in Mexico, violence has surged across multiple states, causing roadblocks, car burnings, and at least 70 deaths. Despite this, FIFA officials express confidence that the upcoming World Cup will proceed as planned in Mexico.