Detention warning for journalists covering 2026 World Cup

Press-Freedom Organisations · 2026-06-15 · EU · verified record

Themes: Media & broadcasting · Online platforms

Ecosystems: EU Media Freedom Act

George Orwell didn’t mince his words when it came to international sporting events. In 1945, following Dynamo Moscow’s draw with Chelsea FC – a result that delighted Joseph Stalin – Orwell described such fixtures as “mimic warfare” and “orgies of hate”. Football fans will no doubt take issue with Orwell, arguing that the beautiful game is just as unifying as it is divisive and I’ll admit to a soft spot for a major tournament. But as with all things Orwell, the man has a point. Today the 2026 World Cup begins, hosted between the USA, Canada and Mexico. Players and referees have already been den

George Orwell didn’t mince his words when it came to international sporting events. In 1945, following Dynamo Moscow’s draw with Chelsea FC – a result that delighted Joseph Stalin – Orwell described such fixtures as “mimic warfare” and “orgies of hate”. Football fans will no doubt take issue with Or

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