The 2026 World Cup concluded with Leandro Paredes grappling with Gavi, leaving fans and analysts to ponder its historical significance. While the excitement fades, the tournament revealed critical issues that could shape future events.

One of the most contentious topics was the Balogun Affair, which highlighted the bending of longstanding rules under political pressure. This moment, echoing previous interventions by Gianni Infantino to prioritize star players like Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi, raises questions about the integrity of the sport. Observers noted the increased focus on revenue generation, suggesting that the prioritization of profit over fairness may become an accepted norm in football.

Concerns about the treatment of Iran and the overall accessibility of the World Cup emerged as significant issues. The tournament's shift towards exclusivity means that it is now perceived more as a luxury event than a mass celebration for fans. The 2030 World Cup may see lower ticket prices, but the availability for regular supporters is increasingly in doubt.

The impact on host cities also warrants examination. In the US and Canada, there were reports of homeless individuals being displaced, while Mexico faced environmental backlash due to water extraction linked to World Cup projects.

La Gazzetta dello Sport described the tournament as a “disaster,” citing ticketing issues and poor organization. Media access was restricted for those who challenged the official narrative, highlighting FIFA's troubling relationship with the press.

On the pitch, the football was solid yet not exceptional. While thrilling matches occurred in the earlier stages—like Brazil vs. Japan and Argentina vs. England—the later rounds fell flat, culminating in a lackluster final. Although Argentina won, the match's dullness casts a shadow on the tournament's overall quality, placing it behind the memorable World Cups of the past.