It’s a clash of cultures, what’s acceptable in one place is not somewhere else, but good taste should always be prioritized. The French FA have formally filed a complaint against Argentina and their players following a viral video where the stars of the 2024 Copa America are singing and chanting offensive lyrics towards the French. 



As reported by AFP, a source closely associated with the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/france" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FFF</a>, the French governing body intends to communicate its concerns directly to the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/argentina" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Argentinian </a>football federation and escalate the matter to <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> for further investigation. 



This action mirrors previous instances where the FFF has taken a firm stance against discriminatory behavior, notably filing complaints over racist remarks made on social media platforms in recent years. 



<h2>FFF not happy with Argentine player’s conduct </h2>


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The chants in question were reportedly captured in a live video shared on social media by Enzo Fernandez, a midfielder for Chelsea and Argentina, as the team celebrated their victory over Colombia in Miami.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240716_BUS_146267_Enzo-Fernandez-vs-El-Salvador-1024x576_4b314fec.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Enzo Fernandez vs El Salvador" class="wp-image-113786" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Enzo-Fernandez-vs-El-Salvador-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Enzo-Fernandez-vs-El-Salvador-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Enzo-Fernandez-vs-El-Salvador-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Enzo-Fernandez-vs-El-Salvador-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/03/Enzo-Fernandez-vs-El-Salvador.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Enzo Fernandez vs El Salvador</figcaption></figure>



 Among those participating in the chant was Enzo Fernandez himself, which includes derogatory references aimed at France’s star striker Kylian Mbappe and includes homophobic remarks. This chant has historical roots stemming from the 2022 World Cup final, where Argentina defeated France.


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<h2>French FA issues statement</h2>



Below the statement by the French FA on the matter between the FFF and Argentine Soccer Federation.



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Statement from the France Football Federation (FFF). <a href="https://t.co/LoSY0JFWho">pic.twitter.com/LoSY0JFWho</a>— CFCDaily (@CFCDaily) <a href="https://twitter.com/CFCDaily/status/1813243338260152638?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 16, 2024</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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French authorities file complaint to FIFA over Argentine social media video 

French FA files complaint to FIFA on Argentine players using a racist chant during Copa America - Bolavip US

French FA files complaint to FIFA on Argentine players using a racist chant during Copa America

miniaturas

With constant review of rules and referee decisions, the 2024-25 soccer season will introduce a package of new regulations aimed at changing various disciplinary aspects of the game.



Starting July 1, the official kickoff of the new season, the IFAB will enforce new rules that must be strictly adhered to the first matches of the 2024-25 season until the world soccer governing body turns its attention back to the regulations.



Exceptions include ongoing competitions like <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/copa-america">Copa America 2024</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/uefa-euro">UEFA Euro 2024</a> where the new rules will apply once a new championship begins, this means that for both tournaments the new rules will come into force in 2028.



<h2>The new 2024-25 soccer rules</h2>



In an official announcement on the IFAB website, the international body listed the new rules to be implemented from July 1. Here’s a breakdown:



<ul><li>Concussion substitution: Teams may now make a sixth substitution if a player suffers a concussion.</li><li>Handball penalty adjustment: Handballs that prevent a clear scoring opportunity inside the box will now result in a penalty and a yellow card instead of a red card as it was normally done.</li><li>Penalty kick interference: If a player invades the penalty area but doesn’t influence the outcome of the play, the penalty kick will not be retaken; otherwise, the player who took the penalty kick must take it again.</li><li>Penalty kick placement: The ball must be centered on the penalty spot when taking a penalty kick.</li><li>Corner kick placement: The ball must be in contact with the inner part of the corner arc when taking a corner kick.</li><li>Protesting players: Only team captains are allowed to protest to the referee. Non-captains who protest will be given a yellow card. This rule was tested during Euro 2024 and Copa America.</li><li>Goalkeeper ball retention: Goalkeepers will now have 8 seconds to hold onto the ball, up from 6 seconds as it was before.</li><li>Goalkeeper attire: Goalkeepers are now allowed to wear long pants, as specified in the uniform guidelines.</li><li>“Calm down” pause: Referees can now call a “calm down” pause, allowing captains and coaches to ensure that players and technical staff behave appropriately.</li><li>Simulation sanctions: Players who simulate a foul to deceive the referee will receive a yellow card.</li><li>Time–wasting sanctions: Players who deliberately waste time will be cautioned with a yellow card.</li></ul>



<h2>Offside rule under review</h2>



Offside calls often generate controversy, and the IFAB is considering changes to the offside rule. The “Wegner Rule” proposed by former Arsenal coach Arsene Wenger, is one such potential change. 



This rule would allow an attacker to be ahead of the defender as long as part of their body is in line with the defender, altering the current offside rule of the second-to-last defender. This proposed rule change is still under study.



As these new regulations take effect, they aim to improve the flow and fairness of the game, responding to the evolving dynamics of modern soccer. At the end of each season the IFAB will always review the rules and determine if any need to be removed, added or changed.

The new global soccer rules for the 2024-25 season

The new global soccer rules for the 2024-25 season - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/portugal" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Portugal</a> made their debut in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/uefa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">UEFA</a> Euro 2024 against Czechia. Prior to the game, everyone thought that Cristiano Ronaldo’s country would win easily due to the massive gap between the two nations in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> World Ranking, but the reality was far different.



For many fans and analysts, Portugal is regarded as a top contender to win Euro 2024. The starting XI is amazing, with <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Cristiano Ronaldo</a> as the team’s captain and several stars surrounding him.



On the other side is Czechia, a nation that has numerous stars in the top European leagues. However, there’s a big difference between the two nations, at least in the FIFA Rankings.



<h2>The FIFA World Ranking of all Euro 2024 teams</h2>



In the most recent FIFA World Ranking, Portugal jumped to 6th place with 1,748.11 points. Czechia is the 8th worst European nation ranked in Euro 2024, standing at 36th place with 1,501.47 points.


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<ul><li>France – 2</li><li>Belgium – 3</li><li>England – 4</li><li>Portugal – 6</li><li>Netherlands – 7</li><li>Spain – 8</li><li>Italy – 9</li><li>Croatia – 10</li><li>Germany – 16</li><li>Switzerland – 19</li><li>Denmark – 21</li><li>Ukraine – 22</li><li>Austria – 25</li><li>Hungary – 26</li><li>Poland – 28</li><li>Serbia – 33</li><li>Czechia – 36</li><li>Scotland – 39</li><li>Turkey – 40</li><li>Romania – 46</li><li>Slovakia – 48</li><li>Slovenia – 57</li><li>Albania – 66</li><li>Georgia – 75</li></ul>


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="6671f0eb34cb8da5c1a38a8d" data-title="Will Portugal win the Euro 2024?" data-options="2"></div>

The massive gap between Portugal and Czechia in the FIFA World Ranking

Cristiano Ronaldo’s UEFA Euro titles with Portugal: How many has he won?

Euro 2024: Cristiano Ronaldo sees privileges revoked by Portugal manager

Euro 2024: What is Portugal, Czechia's current FIFA World Ranking? - Bolavip US

Euro 2024: What is Portugal, Czechia's current FIFA World Ranking?

Euro 2024: Where do Portugal, Czechia currently stand in the FIFA World Ranking?

Slovakia produced the first upset of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/uefa-euro">UEFA Euro 2024</a> by beating Belgium in their debut. Only seven minutes into the game, Ivan Schranz broke the deadlock and that proved the difference in Frankfurt.



The result shocked the soccer community since the likes of Kevin De Bruyne and Romelu Lukaku were on the field. But it also made noise due to the huge gap between these nations in the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa">FIFA</a> Men’s World Ranking.



According to the latest update — April 4, 2024 — <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/belgium">Belgium</a> rank third in the world, while Slovakia barely make the top 50 as they currently sit 48th in the ranking. There are 45 teams separating these nations, yet the lower ranked side emerged victorious this time.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/slovakia">Slovakia</a>, in fact, are among the lowest ranked nations in the FIFA World Ranking among the Euro 2024 participant teams. Only Slovenia (57), Albania (66), and Georgia (75) have a lower ranking.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240617_BUS_133645_slovakia-goal-vs-belgium-1024x576_d0e07898.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Ivan Schranz of Slovakia (obscured) celebrates scoring his team&apos;s first goal with teammates during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Belgium and Slovakia at Frankfurt Arena on June 17, 2024 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany." class="wp-image-133651" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/slovakia-goal-vs-belgium-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/slovakia-goal-vs-belgium-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/slovakia-goal-vs-belgium-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/slovakia-goal-vs-belgium-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/06/slovakia-goal-vs-belgium.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Ivan Schranz of Slovakia (obscured) celebrates scoring his team’s first goal with teammates during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Belgium and Slovakia at Frankfurt Arena on June 17, 2024 in Frankfurt am Main, Germany.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The FIFA World Ranking of all Euro 2024 teams</h2>



While Belgium are on the podium in the FIFA Men’s World Ranking with 1,795.23 points; France are the highest-ranked team among the Euro 2024 participants as they sit second behind Argentina with 1,840.59 points.






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<ul><li>France – 2</li><li>Belgium – 3</li><li>England – 4</li><li>Portugal – 6</li><li>Netherlands – 7</li><li>Spain – 8</li><li>Italy – 9</li><li>Croatia – 10</li><li>Germany – 16</li><li>Switzerland – 19</li><li>Denmark – 21</li><li>Ukraine – 22</li><li>Austria – 25</li><li>Hungary – 26</li><li>Poland – 28</li><li>Serbia – 33</li><li>Czechia – 36</li><li>Scotland – 39</li><li>Turkey – 40</li><li>Romania – 46</li><li>Slovakia – 48</li><li>Slovenia – 57</li><li>Albania – 66</li><li>Georgia – 75</li></ul>

Euro 2024: The impressive gap between Belgium and Slovakia in the FIFA World Ranking

Complete list of UEFA Euro winners by year

UEFA Euro 2024 locations: A guide to host cities and stadiums

Euro 2024: What is Belgium, Slovakia's current FIFA World Ranking? - Bolavip US

Euro 2024: Where do Belgium, Slovakia currently stand in the FIFA World Ranking?

Lionel Messi stole the show in Inter Miami‘s 6-2 win against the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/new-york-red-bulls">New York Red Bulls</a>, recording a goal and an impressive five assists on Matchday 12 of the 2024 MLS regular season.



That outstanding performance gave a lot to talk about within the soccer community and even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa">FIFA</a> president Gianni Infantino reacted to it. “Fantastic, phenomenal,” he said during the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix (0:21).



<figure class="wp-block-embed is-type-rich is-provider-twitter wp-block-embed-twitter"><div class="wp-block-embed__wrapper">
<div class="ck-twitter"><blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-width="500" data-dnt="true">Gianni Infantino sobre la actuación de Lionel Messi ayer: "Fantástico, fenomenal" Es un aficionado de la Fórmula 1 y la experiencia le ha parecido espectacular. Este verano aquí se disputará la final de la Copa América. <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/InterMiamiCF?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#InterMiamiCF</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/MiamiGP?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#MiamiGP</a> <a href="https://t.co/xa3uzVLDVg">pic.twitter.com/xa3uzVLDVg</a>— José Armando (@Jarm21) <a href="https://twitter.com/Jarm21/status/1787198411877281894?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">May 5, 2024</a></blockquote></div><script async="" src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
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This is not the first time the governing body’s chairman heaps praise on the 8x Ballon d’Or winner, who received the FIFA World Cup trophy from <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/gianni-infantino">Infantino</a>‘s hands after leading Argentina to victory at Qatar 2022.



<h2>Infantino wants Messi to play three more World Cups</h2>



Not long ago, Infantino was asked whether he believed Messi would play in the 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup</a> to be played in the United States, Mexico, and Canada. With humor, the FIFA president doubled down and said he would love to see Leo in the next three World Cups.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240506_BUS_124421_Messi-2-1024x576_fa7c7152.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi of Argentina looks on during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar." class="wp-image-92984" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-2-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Argentina looks on during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 Final match between Argentina and France at Lusail Stadium on December 18, 2022 in Lusail City, Qatar.</figcaption></figure>



“I want Messi in the next World Cup, the one that follows [Morocco, Portugal and Spain] and the one in 2034 [Saudi Arabia] as well. As long as he wants,” Infantino told DSports in December 2023.


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<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Messi</a>, 36, is not sure whether he’ll take part in the 2026 event as he fulfilled his lifelong dream in 2022. By 2034, the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star will be 47 years old.



<h2>Messi makes MLS TOTW again</h2>



Messi’s five-assist performance last time out saw him make the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mls">MLS</a> Team of the Matchday for Matchday 12 of the 2024 MLS regular season. This is the fifth time in a row he makes the cut and seventh overall this term so far.



With <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/inter-miami">Inter Miami</a> trailing 1-0 as Dante Vanzeir put New York in front after 30′, Messi played the second half with a chip on his shoulder. Shortly after setting up Matias Rojas for the equalizer, he put the Herons in front at Chase Stadium.



It didn’t take long for Leo to provide another assist for Rojas to make the hosts lead 3-1, but he wasn’t satisfied with that and provided three more assists, all of them to Luis Suarez. 



The Argentine superstar now leads Major League Soccer both in goals (10 – tied with Suarez) and assists (12). <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/lionel-messi-wins-unprecedented-award-in-his-career-with-inter-miami-in-mls">Messi comes from winning MLS Player of the Month</a> for the first time in April, and he’s already on pace to challenge for the May prize.

FIFA president Infantino reacts to Messi's fantastic performance vs NY Red Bulls

Messi's 5 assists for Inter Miami vs NY Red Bulls draws reaction from FIFA president Infantino - Bolavip US

FIFA president Infantino's two-word reaction to Messi's performance vs NY Red Bulls

Over the weekend <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/fifa-world-cup-2026-azteca-way-behind-in-renovations" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">365Scores reporte</a>d that the Estadio Azteca in Mexico was behind schedule and had not met “FIFA requirements”, a <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> spokesperson spoke with Bolavip to shed a little more light on what was originally reported.



 The spokesperson indicated that FIFA is working with all host cities to prepare for the World Cup in the United States, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mexico</a>, and Canada, and that the Estadio Azteca’s renovations are on schedule. 



The Estadio Azteca is one of the cathedrals of world soccer and the FIFA World Cup having the unique distinction of being the stadium in which two of the greatest players of their generations, Pele and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/the-rollercoaster-career-of-diego-maradona-20201030-0008.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Diego Maradona</a> lifted the FIFA World Cup on the field of Estadio Azteca.



<h2>FIFA statement on Estadio Azteca</h2>


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The spokesman commented that, “FIFA continues to work closely with its Host Cities and stadiums to stage the biggest, most inclusive, and successful FIFA World Cup in history in 2026. This close collaboration with all 16 venues includes regular site visits, workshops and meetings that started back in 2022 and will continue until the event kicks off on June 11, 2026.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="570" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240404_BUS_116822_Estadio-Azteca-1024x570_af8db257.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=570" alt="" class="wp-image-116650" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca-1024x570.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca-300x167.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca-768x428.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/04/Estadio-Azteca.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Estadio Azteca</figcaption></figure>



“We continue to work closely with Azteca Stadium on their timely renovation plans ahead of hosting the Opening Match of the tournament.


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“Specific details regarding fan access and additional information about matches will be announced in due course.”

FIFA clarifies Estadio Azteca situation

FIFA clarifies Estadio Azteca situation - Bolavip US

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> is ready to try new things, this time turning its focus on international friendly windows, given the tight schedule in world soccer currently. The new competitions will be titled the FIFA Series and will have a test run in March of 2024; the idea is to have it expand worldwide in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/World-Cup-2026-When-will-tickets-go-on-sale-20230416-0015.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">2026</a>.



The pilot run will be played in four countries in March, “Currently we have 20 teams for the pilot edition. For the 2026 edition we hope to have many more” stated Elkhan Mammadov, FIFA’s Regional Member Associations Director for Europe.



<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/world-cup-2026-fifa-confirms-which-cities-will-host-the-final-and-the-opening-match-20240204-BUS-102303.html" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> will not offer any prize money or give any trophies for this new series of matches, rather the national teams involved in the FIFA Series will have the chance to play opponents from other confederations as FIFA will cover the travel costs.



<h2>Who will participate in the FIFA Series pilot project?</h2>


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The countries participating in the pilot project for March are broken down in the following manner:



ALGERIA Teams: Algeria, Bolivia, Andorra, South Africa 



AZERBAIJAN Teams: Azerbaijan, Mongolia, Tanzania, Bulgaria 



SRI LANKA Teams: Sri Lanka, Papua New Guinea, Bhutan, Central African Republic 



SAUDI ARABIA Group A: Cabo Verde, Equatorial Guinea, Guyana, Cambodia Group B: Guinea, Vanuatu, Bermuda, Brunei 


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“We’ve started discussions with high-ranked teams, and they hope to play and even host the next edition in March 2026. There is interest to host,” Kenny Jean-Marie, FIFA’s Chief Member Associations Officer stated.

What is the FIFA Series?

What is the FIFA Series? - Bolavip US

What is the FIFA Series? Football’s next national team competitions

After unanimous backlash over the blue card, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> issued a statement announcing that the initiative would be “delayed” and that a trial run would occur in lower divisions. If the blue card is implemented it would be the first major change in player bookings since the 1970 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">World Cup</a> when yellow and red cards were introduced.



The blue card color was chosen as a way to make the card look distinct from yellow and red, according to a report. It has also been reported that the idea of the sin-bin would result in a 10 minute exit from the field for a player, and two blue cards would mean expulsion from the match, or a red card.



A question came up as to what would happen if a blue card were issued to a goalkeeper? According to the Telegraph, goalkeepers and coaches have a lot to process if a netminder is issued a blue card.



<h2>What happens if a goalkeeper gets a blue card?</h2>


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According to the Telegraph, a blue card issued to a goalkeeper would result in the player going to the sin-bin for ten minutes and forcing his/her team to play a player down and forcing the coach to make a brutal decision either play with 10 players or field an outfield player as a goalkeeper or make a sub and replace an outfield player with the new goalkeeper.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240212_BUS_104297_Aleksander-Ceferin-1024x576_575101bc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-93489" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Aleksander-Ceferin-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Aleksander-Ceferin-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Aleksander-Ceferin-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Aleksander-Ceferin-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Aleksander-Ceferin.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption> Aleksander Čeferin</figcaption></figure>



When originally announced the English FA and MLS were fair game to test the new rule out, but FIFA has since put cold water on the trail.


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UEFA president Aleksander Ceferin has come out against the blue card initiative calling it “not even <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/soccer" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Football</a> anymore”.

What happens if a goalkeeper gets a blue card?

Blue card and what it means for goalkeepers - Bolavip US

Blue card and what it means for goalkeepers

The blue card is close of becoming the next revolution in <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/soccer">soccer</a>. According to an exclusive report from The Telegraph, the International Association Football Board is ready to implement a historic change.



If a player receives a blue card during the match, their punishment will be a 10-minute suspension. The objective of this measure is to penalize offenses which are less severe than a red card but still have a significant impact on the course of the game, such as deliberately feigning fouls to waste time or insulting referees.



In fact, several months ago, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/france">France</a> became the pioneer of the transformation with a very similar proposal, although within <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ligue-1">Ligue 1</a>, the suggestion was for a white card. 



The discussion on that country was set for the 2024-2025 season, but with the intervention of the IFAB, things could accelerate in other competitions around the world.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large is-resized"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240208_BUS_103239_bluecardreferee-1024x576_27160116.webp&amp;width=650&amp;height=365" alt="" class="wp-image-103242" width="650" height="365" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/bluecardreferee-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/bluecardreferee-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/bluecardreferee-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/bluecardreferee-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/bluecardreferee.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 650px) 100vw, 650px"></figure><figcaption>The blue card is ready to be tested (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>What is the blue card in soccer?</h2>



In practical terms, the blue card for soccer would be similar to what happens in&nbsp;hockey. In that sport, players are penalized with a certain number of minutes off the ice and the time they’re out of the game is determined by the severity of the infraction.







According to The Telegraph’s information, the official announcement could come this Friday, although the initial trials may not take place in top-tier tournaments such as the Champions League or national leagues like the Premier League and La Liga.


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As of now, the IFAB’s proposal would involve a 10-minute suspension for the player committing the infraction. It will be interesting to find out which international competitions apply the debut of this measure, but, FIFA has already confirmed it won’t occur in major events.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="592" height="247" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240208_BUS_103239_fifa_50f871da.webp&amp;width=592&amp;height=247" alt="" class="wp-image-103377" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/fifa.jpeg 592w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/02/fifa-300x125.jpeg 300w" sizes="(max-width: 592px) 100vw, 592px"></figure><figcaption>FIFA clarifies blue card controversy (X/@fifamedia)</figcaption></figure>



Another topic of discussion is what will happen with the combination of cards. The first reports point out that two blue cards, or the sum of a blue and a yellow, could even lead to a red card.


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What seems to be out of the discussion is any tournament related to UEFA, as the president of that organization, Aleksander Ceferin, has expressed strong opposition to the blue card. The upcoming Euro to be held in Germany would, of course, not consider the new rule.


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="65c503e6c04ef6a96d55b48e" data-title="Do you want the blue card in soccer as a new rule?" data-options="2"></div>

What is the new blue card in soccer?

UEFA makes final decision about Cristiano Ronaldo and Neymar playing at the Champions League

Ligue 1 might experiment with white card to help referees next season

Blue card will be introduced in soccer: What is the new rule? - Bolavip US

Blue card to be introduced as new rule in soccer: What does it mean?

The 2026 <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA World Cup</a> may be in June – July of 2026, but already things are heating up for the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Mexico</a>. In an announcement ceremony which included Kevin Hart and Kim Kardashian, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/fifa" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA</a> president Gianni Infantino made huge announcements related to the tournament.



 The biggest is announcing that the FIFA World Cup final in 2026 will be hosted by MetLife Stadium in the New York/New Jersey area on July 19th. Kicking off the competition, Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host the opening game of the World Cup 2026 on June 11th. 



The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/us-national-team" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">USMNT</a> will play their World Cup games in Los Angeles (twice) and one in Seattle. Canada will kick off their World Cup run in Toronto on June 12th. Here is a breakdown of all the matches and the venues for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.



<h2>FIFA 2026 World Cup venues</h2>



USA (11)



Atlanta – Mercedes-Benz Stadium Boston – Gillette Stadium Dallas – AT&amp;T Stadium Houston – NRG Stadium Kansas City – Arrowhead Stadium Los Angeles – SoFi Stadium Miami – Hard Rock Stadium New York/New Jersey – MetLife Stadium Philadelphia – Lincoln Financial Field San Francisco – Levi’s Stadium Seattle – Lumen Field



Canada (2)



Toronto – BMO Field Vancouver – BC Place



Mexico (3)



Guadalajara – Estadio Akron Mexico City – Estadio Azteca Monterrey – Estadio BBVA



 



<h2>Venue breakdown after Group stage for the FIFA World Cup 2026 </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240205_BUS_102478_Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-1024x576_cf6012e2.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-64559" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/Christian-Pulisic-USMNT.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Christian Pulisic</figcaption></figure>



Round of 32: Every city except for Guadalajara and Philadelphia. Los Angeles and Dallas will host two round of 32 clashes. 



Round of 16: Vancouver, Seattle, Mexico City, Houston, Dallas, Atlanta, Philadelphia, East Rutherford 



Quarterfinals: Los Angeles, Kansas City, Miami, Boston 



Semifinals: Dallas, Atlanta 



Third-place playoff: Miami 



Final: East Rutherford 


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<h2>2026 FIFA World Cup venue schedule for the whole tournament </h2>



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240205_BUS_102478_rauljimenez-1024x576_110af601.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-86459" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/11/rauljimenez.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Raul Jimenez </figcaption></figure>



Thursday, 11 June 2026 Match 1 (Mexico #1) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 2 – Estadio Guadalajara 



Friday, 12 June 2026 Match 3 (Canada #1) – Toronto Stadium Match 4 (USA #1) – Los Angeles Stadium 



Saturday, 13 June 2026 Match 5 – Boston Stadium Match 6 – BC Place Vancouver Match 7 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 8 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium 



Sunday, 14 June 2026 Match 9 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 10 – Houston Stadium Match 11 – Dallas Stadium Match 12 – Estadio Monterrey 



Monday, 15 June 2026 Match 13 – Miami Stadium Match 14 – Atlanta Stadium Match 15 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 16 – Seattle Stadium



Tuesday, 16 June 2026 Match 17 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 18 – Boston Stadium Match 19 – Kansas City Stadium Match 20 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium



Wednesday, 17 June 2026 Match 21 – Toronto Stadium Match 22 – Dallas Stadium Match 23 – Houston Stadium Match 24 – Estadio Azteca Mexico City 



Thursday, 18 June 2026 Match 25 – Atlanta Stadium Match 26 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 27 (Canada #2) – BC Place Vancouver Match 28 (Mexico #2) – Estadio Guadalajara



Friday, 19 June 2026 Match 29 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 30 – Boston Stadium Match 31 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 32 (USA #2) – Seattle Stadium



Saturday, 20 June 2026 Match 33 – Toronto Stadium Match 34 – Kansas City Stadium Match 35 – Houston Stadium Match 36 – Estadio Monterrey



Sunday, 21 June 2026 Match 37 – Miami Stadium Match 38 – Atlanta Stadium Match 39 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 40 – BC Place Vancouver



Monday, 22 June 2026 Match 41 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 42 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 43 – Dallas Stadium Match 44 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium



Tuesday, 23 June 2026 Match 45 – Boston Stadium Match 46 – Toronto Stadium Match 47 – Houston Stadium Match 48 – Estadio Guadalajara



Wednesday, 24 June 2026 Match 49 – Miami Stadium Match 50 – Atlanta Stadium Match 51 (Canada #3) – BC Place Vancouver Match 52 – Seattle Stadium Match 53 (Mexico #3) – Estadio Azteca Mexico City Match 54 – Estadio Monterrey



Thursday, 25 June 2026 Match 55 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 56 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 57 – Dallas Stadium Match 58 – Kansas City Stadium Match 59 (USA #3) – Los Angeles Stadium Match 60 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium



Friday, 26 June 2026 Match 61 – Boston Stadium Match 62 – Toronto Stadium Match 63 – Seattle Stadium Match 64 – BC Place Vancouver Match 65 – Houston Stadium Match 66 – Estadio Guadalajara



Saturday, 27 June 2026 Match 67 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 68 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 69 – Kansas City Stadium Match 70 – Dallas Stadium Match 71 – Miami Stadium Match 72 – Atlanta Stadium



FIFA World Cup 26 – Round of 32 fixtures Sunday, 28 June 2026 Match 73 – Los Angeles Stadium



Monday, 29 June 2026 Match 74 – Boston Stadium Match 75 – Estadio Monterrey Match 76 – Houston Stadium



Tuesday, 30 June 2026 Match 77 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 78 – Dallas Stadium Match 79 – Estadio Azteca Mexico City



Wednesday, 1 July 2026 Match 80 – Atlanta Stadium Match 81 – San Francisco Bay Area Stadium Match 82 – Seattle Stadium



Thursday, 2 July 2026 Match 83 – Toronto Stadium Match 84 – Los Angeles Stadium Match 85 – BC Place Vancouver



Friday, 3 July 2026 Match 86 – Miami Stadium Match 87 – Kansas City Stadium Match 88 – Dallas Stadium



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240205_BUS_102478_Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-1024x576_b2dd9c1f.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team&apos;s second goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina." class="wp-image-89231" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/Messi-against-Van-Gaal-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi of Argentina celebrates after scoring the team’s second goal during the FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 quarter final match between Netherlands and Argentina.</figcaption></figure>



FIFA World Cup 26 Round of 16 fixtures Saturday, 4 July 2026 Match 89 – Philadelphia Stadium Match 90 – Houston Stadium



Sunday, 5 July 2026 Match 91 – New York New Jersey Stadium Match 92 – Estadio Azteca Mexico City



Monday, 6 July 2026 Match 93 – Dallas Stadium Match 94 – Seattle Stadium



Tuesday, 7 July 2026 Match 95 – Atlanta Stadium Match 96 – BC Place Vancouver



FIFA World Cup 26 quarter-final fixtures Thursday, 9 July 2026 Match 97 – Boston Stadium



Friday, 10 July 2026 Match 98 – Los Angeles Stadium



Saturday, 11 July 2026 Match 99 – Miami Stadium Match 100 – Kansas City Stadium



FIFA World Cup 26 semi-final fixtures Tuesday, 14 July 2026 Match 101 – Dallas Stadium



Wednesday, 15 July 2026 Match 102 – Atlanta Stadium 


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FIFA World Cup 26 Third Place Game Saturday, 18 July 2026 Match 103 – Miami Stadium



FIFA World Cup 26 Final Sunday, 19 July 2026 Match 104 – New York New Jersey Stadium

2026 FIFA World Cup schedule

2026 fifa world cup schedule - Bolavip US

2026 FIFA World Cup: Venue and game breakdown

The <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">World Cup 2026</a> will be the first edition of the tournament with three countries as hosts: <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico">Mexico</a>, Canada and the United States. Furthermore, with 48 participants, this is the biggest number of teams ever in the competition.



These are the 16 cities selected as official venues for the World Cup: Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Philadelphia, Atlanta, Miami, Boston, New York, Toronto, Vancouver, Monterrey, Guadalajara and Mexico City.



Of course, this World Cup could be the last dance for soccer legends such as <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> and <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/cristiano-ronaldo">Cristiano Ronaldo</a>. That’s why thousands of fans in America are thrilled about what’s coming in two years. 



This Sunday, FIFA announced the official calendar of the World Cup 2026. Read here to find out which cities will host the final and the opening match.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240204_BUS_102303_messi-1024x576_d7bd7bbc.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Lionel Messi with Argentina" class="wp-image-66229" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/09/messi.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Lionel Messi could play his final World Cup with Argentina in 2026 (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>World Cup 2026: Which city will host the final?</h2>



New York will host the final of the 2026 World Cup. The owner of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/dallas-cowboys">Dallas Cowboys</a> in the NFL, Jerry Jones, made a tremendous push to bring that game to Arlington, but failed. So, on July 19th of that year, Metlife Stadium in New Jersey gets the most anticipated match in decades. 







<h2>World Cup 2026: Which city will host the opening match?</h2>



Estadio Azteca in Mexico City will host the opening game of the World Cup 2026 on June 11th. It’s important to remember Mexico is the first country in history to host the tournament three times. 



During the group stage, Mexico’s national team will play two matches in Mexico City and one more in Guadalajara.


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<h2>Which will be the 2026 World Cup format?</h2>



FIFA had to change the initial plan regarding the tournament’s format. Though the first proposal had a group stage format with 16 groups of three teams, the 2026 World Cup will have 12 groups of four national teams each.



The top two teams from each group and the eight best third-place teams from the groups will advance to the Round of 32. Then, the World Cup will enter the knockout stages all the way to the final. 


<div class="wp_fsn_poll" id="65bfe216355a85755992ba9a" data-title="Which team will win the World Cup 2026?" data-options="6"></div>

World Cup 2026: FIFA confirms which cities will host the final and the opening match

FIFA makes a very special request to Lionel Messi ahead of 2026 World Cup

Argentina\&#039;s coach answers if Lionel Messi will play in the 2026 World Cup

World Cup 2026: Which cities will host the final and the opening match? - Bolavip US

A new year has started and the soccer community already feels that the next <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/world-cup">FIFA World Cup</a> is getting closer. For the first time in tournament history, three countries will host the competition when the United States, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/mexico">Mexico</a>, and Canada serve as co-hosts for the 2026 event.



While the governing body has already announced <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/capacity-history-and-more-the-complete-2026-fifa-world-cup-stadium-guide-20220621-0026.html">all the venues</a>, fans are still waiting to know where the grand final will take place. According to the London Times, the three stadiums that are still in consideration are the AT&amp;T Stadium (Dallas), MetLife Stadium (New York), and SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles).



The report claims the MetLife Stadium are “slight” favorites to get the upper hand, while the AT&amp;T Stadium is making a “strong push” to get the big game. SoFi Stadium, meanwhile, has reportedly made a “last-ditch” effort to comply with FIFA’s demands regarding to space on the sidelines.



Let’s keep in mind that all these stadiums currently use artificial turf, so the venue that ultimately gets the hosting rights for the 2026 World Cup final will have to switch to natural grass.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240124_BUS_100012_MetLife-Stadium-1024x576_fce1ece3.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="A general view of the MetLife Stadium." class="wp-image-100023" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/MetLife-Stadium.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>A general view of the MetLife Stadium.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>The World Cup returns to the US more than three decades later</h2>



2026 will be the second time the United States host a World Cup, having already served as home to the 1994 event. On that occasion, the grand final took place at a packed Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California as Brazil beat Italy on penalties in front of 94,194 spectators.


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Flash-forward to the 21st century, the iconic Rose Bowl remains one of the largest stadiums in the US but the modern SoFi Stadium was selected as California’s representative venue in the second World Cup that takes place in American soil.



<h2>All the 2026 World Cup venues</h2>



<h3>United States</h3>



<ul><li>Atlanta</li><li>Boston </li><li>Dallas</li><li>Houston </li><li>Kansas City </li><li>Miami </li><li>New York/New Jersey</li><li>Philadelphia</li><li>San Francisco Bay Area</li><li>Seattle</li></ul>



<h3>Mexico</h3>



<ul><li>Guadalajara</li><li>Mexico City</li><li>Monterrey</li></ul>



<h3>Canada</h3>



<ul><li>Toronto</li><li>Vancouver</li></ul>

Three cities still "in the mix" to host highly anticipated 2026 World Cup final

2026 World Cup final still has three stadiums in contention - report - Bolavip US

Report: The three stadiums still in contention to host 2026 World Cup final

The president of FIFA, <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/gianni-infantino">Gianni Infantino</a>, will propose historic sanctions for teams whose fans are involved in racist incidents. This comes in response to the appalling events against Mike Maignan and Kasey Palmer.



“The events that took place in Udine and Sheffield on Saturday are totally abhorrent and completely unacceptable. There is no place for racism or any form of discrimination, both in football and in society. The players affected by Saturday’s events have my undivided support.”



Fans of Udinese directed racist chants against the goalkeeper of <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/ac-milan">AC Milan</a> and, as a consequence, Maignan decided to leave the field along with his teammates. The match was temporarily suspended at Friuli Stadium.



Meanwhile, the midfielder of Coventry, Kasey Palmer, accused Sheffield Wednesday fans of doing the same thing to him during Saturday’s match in the English Football League Championship which his team won 2-1.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240121_BUS_99328_mikemaignan-1024x576_8128d884.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="" class="wp-image-99334" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/mikemaignan-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/mikemaignan-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/mikemaignan-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/mikemaignan-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/mikemaignan.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Mike Maignan left the field after racist chants from Udinese fans (Getty Images)</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Gianni Infantino proposes ‘forfeit’ to fight against racism</h2>



Gianni Infantino admitted that all the relevant stakeholders need to take action in order to stop racism worldwide. That’s why, a historic change might be implemented to prevent these incidents.







“As well as the three-step process (match stopped, match re-stopped, match abandoned), we have to implement an automatic forfeit for the team whose fans have committed racism and caused the match to be abandoned as well as worldwide stadium bans and criminal charges for racists.”


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Despite FIFA’s fight against racism being applauded on social media, many fans and teams have numerous doubts about how this strategy could be implemented. The argument is that, due to a few fans over whom there is no control, clubs could be adversely affected.



For example, a scenario raised in the debate on the issue is what would happen if, in a match, a fan goes to the stands of the opposing team and from there makes racist chants to prompt a punishment against that club.

Gianni Infantino and FIFA propose historic punishment for teams whose fans commit racism

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Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius Jr react to racist chants against Romelu Lukaku

Gianni Infantino and FIFA propose historic punishment for teams whose fans commit racism - Bolavip US

Alf-Inge Haaland, father of the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/manchester-city" rel="sponsored nofollow">Manchester City</a> striker Erling, was in attendance at <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/the-best">The Best FIFA</a> awards when <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi">Lionel Messi</a> was announced as the winner in the men’s player category for 2023.



The cameras immediately captured Alfie as soon as the decision was revealed, and his reaction, moving his eyebrows in an apparent sign of surprise, gave a lot to talk about on social media. However, the former soccer player later showed no frustration with the result. 



“We had no idea (who would win). I was invited by FIFA to come. I think no one knew, except for them themselves. There are many good players nominated. Just being nominated is an honor for Erling,” Alfie Haaland told Spanish radio Cadena SER.



Messi and Haaland <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/soccer/fifa-explains-why-messi-won-the-best-despite-being-tied-on-points-with-haaland-20240115-BUS-98104.html">finished tied on 48 scoring points</a>, but the Argentine got the upper hand for having more first-choice votes from national team captains. Last year, Haaland also finished behind Messi in the 2023 Ballon d’Or.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1024" height="576" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240117_BUS_98510_erlinghaaland-1-1024x576_4c99cd70.webp&amp;width=1024&amp;height=576" alt="Erling Haaland looks on during a Manchester City." class="wp-image-91071" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/erlinghaaland-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/erlinghaaland-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/erlinghaaland-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/erlinghaaland-1-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2023/12/erlinghaaland-1.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px"></figure><figcaption>Erling Haaland looks on during a Manchester City.</figcaption></figure>



<h2>Alfie Haaland speaks about his son’s injury and future plans</h2>



Alfie Haaland didn’t have much to say about The Best results, but he did take time to give an update on his son’s status. Erling has been on the sidelines for more than a month now, having suffered a foot injury in the Premier League game against Aston Villa on December 6.


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“He is getting better and better,” Alfie said about the Man City striker. “He has been out since December, but I think he is coming back now in January. He is abroad, training and trying to get in shape.”



The former Norway international, who also played for the Sky Blues, made it clear his son is happy at the Etihad Stadium, suggesting he’s not even thinking about playing elsewhere.



“He is very happy,” Alfie Haaland said. “He is playing for a great team, winning several trophies, they achieved the Treble and became world champions. He has a long contract with City and is very happy there.”

Alfie Haaland's reaction to FIFA giving The Best 2023 award to Messi

Erling Haaland's father reacts to Lionel Messi receiving The Best FIFA 2023 - Bolavip US

Erling Haaland's father Alfie reacts to Lionel Messi winning The Best FIFA 2023

<a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/lionel-messi" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Lionel Messi</a> was named the <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/the-best" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">FIFA The Best</a> male player for 2023, amid many pundits and fan uproar who felt that the award should have gone to Manchester City’s <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/erling-haaland" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Erling Haaland</a>. 



Nonetheless many of the captains, including USMNT’s and AC Milan winger Christian Pulisic, voted that the Inter Miami superstar should be awarded the prize. Messi himself selected Haaland as his first choice, giving the Manchester City superstar five points; with former PSG teammate Kylian Mbappe in second place (three points) and fellow countryman Julian Alvarez as his third option (one point). 



One of the loudest voices for who actually won the award and for the starting XI formation chosen for the year of 2023, was former Real Madrid goalkeeper <a href="https://bolavip.com/en/topic/iker-casillas" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Iker Casillas</a> who took to X to air his grievances. 



<h2>Iker Casillas on the FIFA The Best starting XI </h2>


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On X, Iker Casillas tweeted, “1-3-3-4, It is not a lottery number. It is not the telephone code of a country. It is not my password for my iPhone. It’s the new football game system!! For the next starting 11, it is better to put a 1-10.” 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-full"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="478" height="193" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.bolavip.com/webp/en/full/BUS_20240116_BUS_98187_Screenshot-2024-01-16-103955_5a87a5b9.webp&amp;width=478&amp;height=193" alt="" class="wp-image-98189" srcset="https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/Screenshot-2024-01-16-103955.png 478w, https://bolavip-us.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/10/2024/01/Screenshot-2024-01-16-103955-300x121.png 300w" sizes="(max-width: 478px) 100vw, 478px"></figure></figure>



Casillas shared the sentiment of many who believed the Best starting XI was too disbalanced and attack oriented. The FIFPro men’s world XI is as follows: Courtois; Walker, Stones, Dias; Bernardo Silva, Bellingham, De Bruyne; Messi, Haaland, Mbappe, Vinicius Jr. 



<h2>Casillas vents on The Best winner </h2>



The former Spanish World Cup winner also took a jab at Lionel Messi winning the award by tweeting, “You create some nice prizes, and you are taking them away by not doing things fairly. “The Smile” is more like it. Anyway, good night!” 


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The tweet is in reference to Manchester City’s Haaland not winning the award based on the merit that the Norwegian international won various titles with Man City over 2023 and was the standout player of the team many consider right now to be the best in the world.

Iker Casillas slams the Best 2023 starting XI choices

Iker Casillas slams the Best 2023 starting XI choices - Bolavip US

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