FIFA World Cup hosts aim to combat “collusive” anti-competitive schemes
Hosts of the 2026 men’s FIFA World Cup have committed to tackling “collusive schemes related to the provision of goods and services” connected to the tournament.
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The United States Justice Department has launched an initiative with Mexico’s Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE) and Canada’s Competition Bureau to combat anti-competitive conduct, price-fixing and bid-rigging schemes.
The Justice Department’s Antitrust Division Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter explained “the Antitrust Division will be vigilant in detecting anti-competitive conduct by any businesses and individuals that exploit the economic opportunities created by the games”.
Canada’s Competition Bureau Commissioner Matthew Boswell added “strong cooperation among law enforcers and partner organisations is key to ensuring that illegal conduct is investigated, and that appropriate action is taken”.
The US Justice Department’s Antitrust Division Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter promised to be “vigilant in detecting anti-competitive conduct by any businesses and individuals” ©Getty Images
“For Mexico, competition in soccer means passion and enjoyment,” she commented.
“Just as in the World Cup, for competition to happen in the economic markets, a level playing field for all those interested in offering their goods and services should be guaranteed.
“Today we announce a historic collaboration to promote the inclusive benefits of economic and sports competition.
“In this regard, COFECE will be as vigilant as ever to guarantee that the economic benefits derived from this event are not affected by anti-competitive conducts that could harm both local and international fans.”
The 2026 World Cup is due to feature 48 teams and 104 matches for the first time across 11 cities in the US, three in Mexico and two in Canada.