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SoccerMexico

Protests, controversy surround kickoff of 2026 World Cup

02:40

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Nicolas Kumanoff
June 11, 2026

The men's World Cup, set to be the biggest in history, kicked off with co-hosts Mexico facing South Africa in Mexico City. But protests and controversy has dampened the usual World Cup fever in Mexico and the US.

As Mexico City prepares for the World Cup Fan Fest in the Zocalo, protests have disrupted the buildup.

Teachers demanding better pensions and families of missing persons are voicing anger over ongoing violence.

In the US, activists warn fans about strict immigration policies after a top Somali referee was denied entry, underscoring tensions surrounding the tournament.

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