Politics and human rights will take centre stage when leading figures of the football world meet for FIFA’s 76th Congress in Canada, weeks before the North American nation cohosts the World Cup with the United States and Mexico.The Iran war, logistical issues surrounding the World Cup and the unresolved question of Russia’s international ban are set to feature in discussions among roughly 1,600 delegates from more than 200 member associations.The meeting will be overshadowed by the US-Israeli war on Iran and its team’s participation in the World Cup.The congress, which is set to bring together representatives of all 211 FIFA member associations, will be held without the Iranian delegation after members of its football federation departed from Canada earlier this week, citing mistreatment by immigration officials.Here’s what we know about the FIFA Congress so far:What’s on the FIFA Congress agenda this time?The annual FIFA Congress brings together representatives of all 211 member associations to make key decisions regarding world football governance, finances and regulations.Thursday’s congress will focus on operational and financial issues related to the 48-team World Cup – the largest ever tournament.Why did the Iranian delegation return from Canada?Iranian football officials turned back upon arrival at Toronto’s Pearson airport despite holding valid visas, citing what was described as the “unacceptable behaviour of immigration officials”.The delegation was en route to Vancouver and had trav …
