FIFA World Cup 2026™ ticket holders heading to matches in the United States will have a smoother path to travel, thanks to a new fast-track visa system unveiled at the White House.

At a high-profile event in Washington, D.C., attended by U.S. President Donald J. Trump, Vice President JD Vance, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, members of the White House Task Force and FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the U.S. Department of State announced the launch of the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System, known as FIFA PASS.

The system allows every fan who has purchased a FIFA World Cup 2026™ ticket for matches in the United States to request a prioritised U.S. visa interview appointment, giving supporters a clearer and faster route to securing travel documents.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino described the move as a major step in the buildup to the tournament, which will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico and the United States across 16 host cities.

“America welcomes the world,” Infantino said, calling FIFA World Cup 2026™ the most inclusive edition in history and pointing to FIFA PASS as a practical example of that ambition. He thanked President Trump, Vice President Vance, Secretary Rubio, Secretary Noem, Executive Director Andrew Giuliani and the White House Task Force for their “incredible support” in preparing for what is expected to be an unprecedented influx of international visitors.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio framed the initiative as both welcoming and secure. “The United States is offering prioritized appointments so FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and show they qualify,” he said, urging fans to apply early with “kick-off coming up.”

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem stressed that security vetting will remain strict. She said visitors will be “thoroughly vetted just like anyone who would travel here” and expressed hope that fans will “enjoy our country,” return home on time, and leave with lasting memories — of both the United States and the sport.

In total, more than six million tickets are expected to be available for FIFA World Cup 2026™, which will be played across North America. With such a large global audience, streamlined travel procedures are seen as vital to ensuring full stadiums and a smooth fan experience.

Fans who require a U.S. visa and are in countries where interview appointments are available are being encouraged to apply immediately via the U.S. Department of State’s dedicated FIFA World Cup 2026™ page. Detailed guidance on using FIFA PASS will be sent directly to ticket holders in early 2026.

Supporters from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may instead apply for visa-free travel through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), if eligible.

The travel initiative comes as FIFA and the World Trade Organization (WTO) highlight the wider economic impact of the 2026 tournament. A joint study released earlier this year estimates that FIFA World Cup 2026™ will create around 185,000 full-time jobs, generate USD 30.5 billion in gross output and add USD 17.2 billion to U.S. GDP.

For fans planning trips not only to the United States but also to Canada and Mexico, FIFA is directing supporters to its dedicated information hub for full details on visas and entry requirements for all three host nations.

The Match for Hope 2026 charity football event produced a thrilling finale on January 30 at Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium, as Team Chunkz secured an 8–7 victory over Team AboFlah in front of 40,521 spectators in Doha, Qatar. The star-studded match brought together legendary football figures and prominent content creators in support of a global educational cause.

Organisers reported that the event generated approximately $12.4 million (QR45.29 million) in revenue, with all proceeds earmarked for projects implemented by the Education Above All (EAA) Foundation to improve access to education for disadvantaged children and youth around the world.

In addition to the match itself, this year’s event was part of a broader series of activities that included a live performance by Grammy-nominated duo The Chainsmokers before kickoff and a halftime show headlined by The Jonas Brothers, enhancing fan engagement and social media buzz.

Match for Hope is held annually to raise funds and awareness for quality education for marginalised children and young people in regions across the Middle East, Asia and Africa.

The initiative, organised by Q Life — the cultural platform of Qatar’s International Media Office — in partnership with the EAA Foundation and supported by entities such as the Supreme Committee for Delivery and Legacy, Qatar Airways, Qatar Duty Free and Visit Qatar, among others, aims to channel the unifying power of sport toward meaningful social impact.

Since its inauguration in 2024, the event has expanded in scale and reach: the first two editions collectively raised more than QAR 71 million (approximately USD 19.5 million), contributing to educational programmes in countries including Palestine, Sudan, Mali, Rwanda, Tanzania, Pakistan and more.

Team Chunkz, captained by British creator and entertainer Chunkz alongside former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger, featured celebrated football stars such as Eden Hazard, Marcelo and Diego Costa, supported by creators including Mohamed Adnan, Sharky, AngryGinge and Marlon.

Meanwhile, Team AboFlah, led by Italian coach Roberto Di Matteo, showcased icons including Thierry Henry, Franck Ribéry, Gerard Piqué and Tim Cahill, as well as globally recognised creators such as MrBeast, KSI, Amr Nosouhi and Osama Marwah.

The match was also notable for light-hearted moments that captured global attention, including a playful stunt by MrBeast involving a briefcase full of cash during a penalty situation — an instance that added viral appeal to the event’s charitable atmosphere.

Following the final whistle, Wenger praised the atmosphere and turnout, emphasising that the event demonstrated how sport and its core values can promote development, peace and greater opportunity for children worldwide. He noted fans engaged enthusiastically with both the match and its supporting entertainment and fan experiences.

Fellow participant Marcelo highlighted the high organisation of the event and the positive impact of such initiatives on advancing educational goals. French football legend Thierry Henry also remarked on the strong attendance as indicative of broad international support for expanding educational opportunities for children facing barriers to schooling.

An extraordinary experience unfolded today for a group of children and young people from communities across Australia, as the Emirates Force for Good program celebrated the conclusion of its inaugural year at the Australian Open.

Delivered in partnership with the Australian Tennis Foundation (ATF), the initiative brought 25 selected participants, accompanied by a parent, guardian or friend, to Melbourne for an immersive, once-in-a-lifetime experience at the heart of a Grand Slam tournament.

For many of the participants, access to tennis and elite sporting environments would otherwise have been out of reach. The event marked a major milestone for the Emirates Force for Good program, a $2.25 million, five-year commitment by Emirates designed to create meaningful, long-term opportunities for disadvantaged children through sport.

During its 2025 pilot year, the program generated significant impact across the five Australian cities served by Emirates – Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane, Perth and Adelaide. In collaboration with 53 community organisations, 44 programs and events were delivered, introducing more than 2,000 children to tennis.

Collectively, the initiative created more than 10,500 hours of engagement and delivered over 7,600 opportunities for participants to play, connect and develop new skills. To support sustainable participation beyond the program, more than 715 racquets, nets and balls were donated to children and community groups nationwide.

The year culminated today with participants experiencing the excitement of the Australian Open firsthand. The group visited the AO Ballpark presented by Emirates, met Australian tennis legends Casey Dellacqua and Pat Cash, and immersed themselves in the atmosphere of one of the world’s most iconic sporting events.

Dean Cleaver, Emirates Regional Sales Manager, said the day reflected the true purpose of the initiative. “Today is a powerful celebration of the impact this program continues to have on young lives. It’s about far more than learning a sport – it’s about building confidence, supporting physical and mental wellbeing, and opening doors to new possibilities.

The children here today were selected for their commitment and positive attitude, and flying them to Melbourne embodies everything Force for Good stands for: connection, inspiration and opportunity.”

The program’s impact is echoed in participant outcomes, with 85 per cent reporting increased self-belief and optimism about their future, and 76 per cent feeling more confident to try new experiences.

Vicki Reid, Executive Director of the Australian Tennis Foundation, said the day demonstrated the transformative power of sport. “This program is designed to help young people step outside their comfort zone, find a sense of belonging and experience the joy tennis can bring.

Seeing children who began their journey on community courts now standing at a Grand Slam is deeply moving and highlights what’s possible when opportunity is created.”

Former Australian professional tennis player Casey Dellacqua, who spent time with the group, also shared her reflections. “This is what tennis is all about. Watching these kids reminds me of the excitement I felt when I first picked up a racquet. It’s a privilege to be part of their journey, and for many, today will be a defining moment that shows them no dream is out of reach.”

The Emirates Force for Good program is a cornerstone of the airline’s long-standing support for Australian sport and culture. Emirates has invested in Australia for nearly three decades, including its iconic partnership as the Official Airline of the Australian Open.

Building on the momentum of its successful pilot year, the Emirates Force for Good program will continue in 2026, expanding its reach through additional tennis initiatives and community-focused events across Australia.

Qatar is in advanced discussions with FIFA over hosting rights for the inaugural Women’s Club World Cup, an event that could bring major scheduling challenges to domestic football seasons across the globe — especially in Europe — during the 2027–28 campaign.

FIFA confirmed last month that the first-ever Women’s Club World Cup will take place from 5 to 30 January 2028, but the governing body has yet to reveal the host nation or whether it will implement a formal bidding process. Qatar’s bid marks the latest in a series of attempts to secure major international football tournaments since successfully staging the men’s 2022 World Cup—a milestone that strengthened Doha’s close partnership with FIFA.

The country continues to host prominent FIFA events. In December 2025, the FIFA Intercontinental Cup was held in Al-Rayyan, where Paris Saint-Germain defeated Flamengo in the final. Additionally, Doha will stage the second edition of the men’s Finalissima in March 2026, featuring European champions Spain and South American champions Argentina.

As previously reported by The Guardian, Qatar had also expressed interest in hosting the men’s Club World Cup in 2029. However, FIFA’s decision to stage that competition during the northern hemisphere summer effectively ruled Qatar out, positioning Morocco and Spain as the leading candidates to host as a trial run ahead of the 2030 World Cup.

Awarding the first Women’s Club World Cup to Qatar is expected to spark debate, given the country’s limited legacy in women’s football and its stance on LGBTQ+ rights. Qatar’s women’s national team was formed in 2009, coinciding with preparations for the 2022 World Cup bid, but despite an initial phase of international activity, the team has not played an official match for 12 years and currently holds no FIFA ranking.

Nevertheless, Qatar offers several key advantages as a potential host: modern stadium infrastructure built for the men’s World Cup, a favourable winter climate, and established logistical capabilities. These factors make a Gulf host nation appear increasingly likely given the tournament’s January schedule.

Saudi Arabia remains another potential contender, yet it faces scheduling conflicts, as it is set to host the four-team Spanish Super Cup in January 2028. According to FIFA sources, no formal bids for the event have yet been received, and the organization has declined to provide details on whether a structured bidding process will take place.

The January 2028 timeframe poses significant challenges for domestic competitions worldwide, highlighting the intensifying issue of fixture congestion in the women’s game. While the event will not overlap with the UEFA Women’s Champions League, numerous European leagues are expected to be affected. Many may be forced to extend or adjust their winter breaks to accommodate player participation. Established domestic leagues in Australia, Mexico, and Japan are also likely to experience calendar disruptions.

The first Women’s Club World Cup will feature 16 teams, with at least five from Europe and two representatives each from Asia, Africa, South America, and North America. One club from each of the five continental confederations, along with one from Oceania, will compete in a qualifying tournament to determine the final three entrants.

FIFA has yet to finalize the competition’s eligibility criteria, though Arsenal, as the reigning UEFA Women’s Champions League winners, are widely expected to participate. The tournament is planned to be staged every four years, establishing a new global showcase for women’s club football and expanding FIFA’s ambitions for the women’s game.

With less than a month remaining before the start of the FIFA Arab Cup Qatar 2025, anticipation is mounting across the region as Arab football’s biggest tournament prepares to return to Qatar from December 1 to 18.

Set to bring together the best of Arab football, this year’s edition marks the second time Qatar hosts the event, following the successful 2021 tournament — the first organized under FIFA’s umbrella. The 2025 competition raises the stakes even higher, featuring a record prize pool of over $36.5 million (approximately QAR 132.9 million), placing it among the world’s most prestigious football tournaments.

A total of 16 national teams will compete for the title. Nine top-ranked Arab nations have already qualified, while 14 others will fight for the remaining seven spots in qualifying matches scheduled for November 25–26 in Qatar. Defending champions Algeria will aim to retain their crown, while hosts Qatar are targeting their first-ever FIFA Arab Cup triumph.

Tickets went on sale on September 30, drawing strong interest from supporters of Qatar, Jordan, Tunisia, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt. Prices start at QAR 25, and fans can opt for “Follow My Team” packages that cover all group-stage games for their chosen nation. All tickets are digital and include accessible seating for fans with disabilities.

Visitors traveling to Qatar will be able to take advantage of exclusive packages from Qatar Airways, while fans in the country can look forward to entertainment and cultural festivities throughout the tournament. All stadiums — Al Bayt, Lusail, Ahmad Bin Ali, Education City, Khalifa International, and Stadium 974 — are connected by efficient public transport and designed to ensure a barrier-free experience.

The opening match on December 1 will see Qatar face the winner of the Palestine–Libya qualifier at 7:30 p.m. in Al Bayt Stadium. The final will take place on December 18, coinciding with Qatar National Day, at the iconic Lusail Stadium.

Fans can view the full match schedule and purchase tickets exclusively at www.roadtoqatar.qa.

The countdown is on for one of the Middle East’s biggest running events as Ooredoo announces the return of the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo 2026, set for Friday, 16 January 2026.

Now in its 14th edition, the marathon promises a bigger, more inclusive, and community-driven experience with over QR 1 million in cash prizes and new features designed to enhance every runner’s journey.

The 2026 event introduces a landmark initiative the Blue Fun Run, launched in partnership with the Autism Parents Platform and supported by Doha’s autism organizations.

This dedicated category gives children with autism an opportunity to join the excitement on the same day as the Kids’ Fun Run, reinforcing Ooredoo’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility.

Runners can also enjoy personalized name and time engraving services at Marathon Village and earn Nojoom Points by registering through the Ooredoo App.

International participants can take advantage of a 10% airfare discount through Qatar Airways, the marathon’s official airline partner.

Two Toyota Prado 2026 SUVs will be raffled among finishers across all race categories 5 km, 10 km, half marathon, and full marathon alongside total cash prizes worth approximately QR 1,000,000.

As part of Ooredoo’s ongoing community initiatives, proceeds from the event will be donated to charity, while participants can enjoy free physiotherapy services, wellness zones, food stalls, and entertainment areas at Marathon Village on race day.

The event enjoys robust backing from leading Qatari companies. Platinum Sponsors include Katara Hospitality, New Balance (Official Sports Footwear and Apparel Partner), and Al Abdulghani Motors (Exclusive Mobility Partner).

Gold Sponsors Doha Bank and United Development Company (UDC) reaffirm their support for national health and sports initiatives.

Silver Sponsors Qommunication, Rayyan Water, Qatar Insurance Group (QIC), Rafeeq, and PayLater — further contribute to the event’s growing success. Meanwhile, Al Kass Sports Channels will once again serve as the Official Broadcast Partner, bringing the race to viewers across Qatar and beyond.

Key Supporting Partners such as Ashghal Public Works Authority, the Ministry of Interior, and the Qatar Athletics Federation (QAF) will ensure seamless road operations, safety measures, and traffic coordination for participants and spectators alike.

Speaking at the press conference, Sabah Rabiah Al Kuwari, Vice Chairman of the Marathon Committee and Senior Director of Marketing Communications at Ooredoo Qatar, said: “Sport brings people together, inspires healthier lifestyles, and strengthens our sense of community.The Doha Marathon is set to be our largest yet, with an expected 20,000 participants. We’re proud to introduce new features from the Blue Fun Run to Nojoom integration making the event more inclusive and memorable than ever.”

Ooredoo brand ambassador Sheikha Asma Al Thani added:

“Every race, like every climb, is about challenging your limits. The marathon inspires people of all ages and abilities to push beyond boundaries and come together in the spirit of perseverance and unity.”

After attracting 15,000 runners from 140 countries in 2025 and earning World Athletics Gold Label status for the second year running, the Doha Marathon by Ooredoo continues to solidify its place on the global athletics calendar.

Runners can register now at register.dohamarathonooredoo.com.Early bird registration closes 31 October 2025, with group discounts available for teams of four or more.