Infantino Tells the World to Chill Over Visa Scandal

FIFA president Gianni Infantino used a lengthy pre-tournament press conference to defend the governing body over one of the most uncomfortable stories of the build-up, according to Sky Sports. Omar Artan, who would have been the first Somali referee at a World Cup, was refused entry to the United States despite believing he held a valid visa. Somalia is among the countries covered by a US travel ban.

Infantino's response, delivered the night before the tournament opened, was to urge people to "chill and relax," a phrase that Sky Sports reports drew widespread attention. The FIFA chief also addressed Iran's participation in the competition and concerns over ticket prices at the same press conference.

The episode cast a shadow over what should have been a celebratory moment for the sport, and Artan's absence means a piece of history was lost before a ball had been kicked.