Football is "stuck" amidst global instability.

(NLĐO) - The world is at one of the most sensitive times, and football cannot function normally amidst security instability.

Previously, the International Football Federation (FIFA) asserted: "Sport has nothing to do with politics ." However, the latest developments in the Middle East and Mexico have shown that security instability is directly impacting, and even paralyzing, many international sporting activities.

The Iraqi national team has not yet been able to obtain visas to enter Mexico (Photo: AFC)

One prime example is the case of the Iraqi national team. This West Asian representative is about to enter the intercontinental play-offs to win a ticket to the 2026 World Cup. The intercontinental play-offs are scheduled to be held in Mexico from March 26th to 31st.

Currently, due to the tense situation in the Middle East, Iraq's head coach, Graham Arnold, remains "stranded" in the UAE because of the airspace closure. In addition, many embassies have also been closed, including Mexico's diplomatic mission in West Asia. This has prevented some Iraqi players and coaching staff from obtaining visas to enter Mexico.

Furthermore, Iraq's difficulties are only part of a larger picture. Even in Mexico, a co-host of the upcoming World Cup, the organizers are facing serious security challenges.

In late February, gang-related violence in this North American country left more than 12,000 people missing. Notably, violence erupted in Guadalajara, one of the three cities that will host matches of the 2026 World Cup in Mexico.

Recently, Roman Villalvazo Barrios, head of Mexico's World Cup Coordination Center, announced that the country is preparing to implement the "Kukulkan" plan to ensure security at this summer's tournament.

Accordingly, 20,000 soldiers, 55,000 police officers, 24 aircraft, anti-drone systems, and sniffer dogs will be mobilized to protect fans and teams traveling to Mexico for the World Cup.

Qatar is unlikely to be able to host the Finalissima due to the escalating military situation (Photo: AS).

In the Middle East, matches in all three of the Asian Football Confederation (AFC) club competitions in the Western region have been postponed indefinitely. The situation is no better in Qatar, where the Intercontinental Super Cup (Finalissima) between Argentina and Spain is scheduled for March 27th.

There are approximately 5,000 Spaniards currently "stranded" in Doha, including the wife and 3-month-old child of footballer Raúl de Tomás.

With the whole world anticipating the biggest football event on the planet in less than 100 days, sports, despite their spirit of unity and peace, are inevitably caught up in the whirlwind of events off the pitch.

Source: https://nld.com.vn/bong-da-mac-ket-giua-bat-on-toan-cau-196260307132253407.htm