FIFA President Gianni Infantino has dismissed concerns over ongoing visa problems for players and officials entering the United States for the World Cup, stating that the global football body's executives are not 'kings of the world' and cannot override government decisions.

Speaking at a press conference in Mexico City on Wednesday, Infantino said: 'We try always to find solutions – always. But then we need to respect that we are not the kings of the world who can rule over governments and police forces. We are a sports organisation; we try to do our best with the means that we have.'

Earlier this week, the US denied entry to Somali referee Omar Artan, who had a valid visa and was set to officiate at the tournament. Infantino called the incident 'unfortunate' but declined to provide details. FIFA subsequently removed Artan from the roster.

Infantino's comments followed US President Donald Trump's statement that his administration is working to ensure 'the right people' enter the country for the World Cup. The FIFA chief suggested that sometimes it is better to 'chill and relax' rather than escalate conflicts over visa issues.

Infantino said FIFA has no regrets about selecting the US as one of the three host nations. This year's World Cup marks the first time since 1930 that a host country is receiving a nation it is at war with, as the US-Israel war on Iran has turned the tournament into a geopolitical contest.

Iranian players were granted US visas 10 days before their first match in Los Angeles. Infantino defended FIFA's behind-the-scenes efforts: 'It has been successful to bring Iran to play in America, I don't know who would've managed to do that … we don't live on the moon, we live on planet Earth, and we try our best.'

Source: www.aljazeera.com