The 2026 FIFA World Cup delivered unforgettable football and major controversies, from VAR decisions and refereeing debates to travel restrictions and…
1/11The 2026 FIFA World Cup kept football fans captivated with thrilling matches and memorable performances from some of the world’s biggest stars. As fans celebrate champion Spain, it is also a good time to look back at some of the tournament’s biggest controversies.
2/11Iran’s travel restrictions – Iran’s FIFA World Cup campaign was affected by travel restrictions linked to the conflict involving Iran, the US and Israel. The team was allowed to enter the US only a day before its matches and had to return to its base in Mexico after each game. Iran’s football federation complained to FIFA, saying the restrictions disrupted the team’s training schedule.
3/11VAR denies Egypt a crucial goal – Egypt thought they had taken a 2-0 lead against Argentina after Mostafa Ziko found the net. However, VAR ruled that Marvan Attia had committed a foul earlier in the move, leading to the goal being disallowed. The decision proved pivotal as Argentina fought back to win 3-2.
4/11England SkyCam controversy – England’s equaliser against Norway sparked debate after many believed the ball had struck the overhead SkyCam cable before the goal. Norwegian players appealed to the referee to stop play, but FIFA’s ball-tracking technology confirmed there had been no contact. The goal stood, leaving Norway frustrated.
5/11Belgium’s late penalty against Senegal – Belgium staged a dramatic comeback against Senegal after VAR awarded a penalty in stoppage time. The referee initially waved away appeals following a challenge on Youri Tielemans, but changed his decision after reviewing the incident on the pitch-side monitor. Belgium converted the spot-kick to win the match, while Senegal felt the decision was harsh.
6/11Messi avoids red card – Lionel Messi came under scrutiny after a late challenge on Algeria captain Aïssa Mandi during Argentina’s opening match. Although many believed the tackle warranted a red card, the referee awarded only a free-kick and VAR did not intervene.
7/11Folarin Balogun suspension reversed – USA forward Folarin Balogun was sent off against Bosnia and Herzegovina, ruling him out of the next match. However, FIFA later overturned the suspension and cleared him to play. The decision sparked controversy after reports claimed US President Donald Trump had asked FIFA to review the case.
8/11Germany lose goal after VAR review – Germany believed Jonathan Tah had scored the winner against Paraguay in extra time. However, VAR ruled the goal out after officials concluded that Waldemar Anton had fouled the goalkeeper in the build-up. Germany eventually lost the match in a penalty shootout.
9/11Didier Deschamps criticises refereeing – France coach Didier Deschamps questioned several refereeing decisions during the World Cup, particularly after matches against Spain and Paraguay. He argued that French players were punished more harshly than their opponents.
10/11Leandro Paredes clashes with Spanish players – Spain’s World Cup celebrations were briefly overshadowed after Argentina midfielder Leandro Paredes became involved in a heated confrontation with Spanish players. He reportedly punched Eric Garcia and later struck Gavi as tempers flared after the final whistle. Several players intervened to prevent the situation from escalating further.
11/11Argentina turn their backs – After losing the FIFA World Cup final to Spain, Argentina’s players turned their backs as the champions lifted the trophy. The incident drew criticism, with many viewing it as a display of poor sportsmanship on one of football’s biggest stages.
