Fifa accused of blocking labour inspection at 2026 World Cup stadium

Building and Wood Workers’ International makes claim.

Aerial view of the remodeling works at the Azteca stadium in Mexico City on January 3, 2025. The Azteca stadium is being renovated to host the inauguration of the 2026 World Cup. Pic: ALFREDO ESTRELLA/AFP via Getty Images

Fifa has been accused of reneging on a commitment to ensure workers’ safety on World Cup projects by refusing inspectors access to observe conditions inside Mexico’s Azteca Stadium.

Representatives from the trade union the Building and Wood Workers’ International say they were told on Monday before a planned visit that they would not be allowed access to the 80,000-capacity venue, which is being renovated for the 2026 World Cup.