Council of Europe Secretary General Alain Berset on Sunday raised concerns over FIFA’s handling of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing issues including refereeing decisions, political influence, racism and the growing role of betting in football.
In a statement released ahead of the World Cup final, Berset questioned several developments during the tournament.
“A sanction suspended under pressure, within days, with no reasons given. The authority of referees called into question. Racist abuse of players, some of it from elected officials. Betting on every pass, every card, every corner,” he said, adding: “The celebration will end tonight. The questions will not.”
Berset warned that the growing influence of betting posed a serious threat to the integrity of the sport.
He criticised FIFA’s decision to make a prediction market an official tournament partner, saying betting had expanded beyond match results to individual in-game events, increasing the risk of fraud.
The Council of Europe chief also questioned FIFA’s decision to suspend the automatic one-match ban imposed on United States striker Folarin Balogun following his red card.
While FIFA President Gianni Infantino said the disciplinary committee acted independently and in accordance with tournament regulations, Berset argued that the decision—taken shortly after a phone call between US President Donald Trump and Infantino—created the perception of political interference.
“When the rules bend under pressure, every result is open to doubt,” he said.
Berset called for an international dialogue to establish a stronger integrity framework ahead of the 2030 FIFA World Cup, saying lessons from this year’s tournament should be addressed before the centenary edition of football’s biggest event.
The 2026 World Cup has been overshadowed by a series of controversies both on and off the pitch, including disputes over officiating, allegations of racism, political influence and broader concerns about the governance of world football.