Welcome back to The Conversation, Newsweek’s weekly round up of reader comments. The World Cup officially kicked off with a dramatic first game between Mexico and South Africa—but that wasn't enough to dampen down criticism surrounding the tournament off the pitch.

Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry into the United States, preventing him from officiating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup—a move that drew outrage across the world.

With some fans also being denied entry into the U.S, questions have been raised about the point of hosting a global sporting event if the home nation refuses to admit some international officials and supporters.

As debate around the issue continues, Newsweek readers weighed in with their thoughts. Here's what they had to say:

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Referee Banned from World Cup

Original Article: Banned World Cup Referee Called Trump ‘Racist’, Condemned US

Background: Resurfaced social media posts believed to be from Artan show him repeatedly calling President Donald Trump a racist.

Reader Comment: "Omar Artan just got appointed as the referee of the 2026 UEFA Super Cup—he will be rising to stardom, and the story about him being kicked out of the US because of Trump's childish vanity will live on for years" Random dane

Editor’s Note: This reader points out that the referee’s exclusion from the World Cup has made his name known around the world and notes that he has since been appointed to officiate another high-profile game.

Reacting to The United States flag Being Booed

Original Article: Was USA Flag Booed at World Cup Opening? Here Are The Facts

Background: The United States flag was loudly booed during the World Cup opening ceremony in Mexico City. The moment happened at the very start of a politically charged tournament already marked by tensions involving the U.S. and its co‑hosts.

Reader Comment: "I feel sorry for the U.S. team. The players just want to compete in the tournament. But everything they do will be surrounded by a political aura. I wouldn't be surprised if interviews with the team become political." LifeGoesOn

Editor’s Note: This reader expresses sympathy for the U.S. team, suggesting that players could find themselves at the center of political debates surrounding the tournament despite being focused on the competition itself.

Soccer Fan Denied Entry to World Cup Opener

Original Article: Scotland Fan Missing World Cup Opener Says Trump Should ‘Return the Hospitality’

Background: A soccer fan from Scotland says he is "devastated" after his ability to travel to the U.S. for the 2026 FIFA World Cup was revoked without explanation.

Reader Comment: "Trump playing his little games for issues he had with govt officials over there concerning his business dealings. Taking it out on innocent citizens and he is just jumping for joy." TravlinMan

Editor’s Note: This reader attributes the decision to wider political tensions and expresses concern that individual supporters are being caught up in disputes beyond their control.

Original Article: World Cup Visitors Given Advice on U.S. Entry Amid Border Concerns

Background: World Cup fans planning to travel to the United States are being urged to prepare their paperwork well in advance, carry proof of their travel plans and remain patient with heightened security measures.

Reader Comment: "There are several WC fans traveling in the South who are posting on X their fun and enlightening experiences with Southern and Texan hospitality.

They are here having a great time and meeting friendly Americans who are happy to share American culture and cuisine.

German 'FreddyLA7' having a blast road tripping to Houston and discovered Ella Langley for their tunes.

Scotsman 'shaunvlog_' enjoying Texas BBQ

Don't believe the naysayers." GigaChadMusk

Editor’s Note: Taking a different approach, this reader points to social media posts from World Cup visitors describing positive travel experiences in the United States, including hospitality, food and cultural exchanges.

Debate Over U.S. Cultural Attitudes and Global Perception

Original Article: Europeans Complaining About World Cup Prices? That’s Rich

Background: European soccer fans have led the complaints about how expensive the tournament is in the U.S., from tickets to travel to hotels.

Reader Comment: "U.S. ethnocentrism.

We seem to think that our way is the right way, even the ONLY way.

Trump modeling his air of superiority doesn't help matters. The humbleness gene is not in Trump." everybodyhasone

Editor’s Note: This reader criticizes what they see as U.S. cultural ethnocentrism and argues that political leadership can shape perceptions of national attitudes abroad.

How do you feel about the World Cup so far? Let us know and make sure to check out more highlighted comments coming soon.