In controversial remarks, former FIFA president Sepp Blatter urged football fans around the world to "avoid traveling" to attend the World Cup, which will be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Blatter stressed that his warning was based on security and political concerns, pointing to the strict measures taken by the US immigration authorities, saying: "What we see internally in terms of violations committed by the immigration authorities does not encourage fans to go there."
He added that visa restrictions and fears of "arbitrary" treatment at the border could turn the fans' journey into a difficult and confusing experience.
Blatter also advised the fans directly: "For the fans, I have only one piece of advice: avoid the United States! You can watch the World Cup on television and have a better experience."
These remarks come at a time when his successor, Gianni Infantino, is trying to calm fears and say the tournament will be a "global celebration," but Blatter's weight and long experience in leading FIFA make his statements highly influential and could affect fan enthusiasm, ticket sales, and hotel bookings.
The sports community is awaiting the response of the organizing committee to see whether Blatter's calls will turn into an actual boycott, or whether the passion for football will remain greater than the political and diplomatic obstacles.
