World Cup 2026 Kickoff: FIFA’s expanded 48-team tournament begins June 12 with Mexico vs South Africa and Canada, the US, and Qatar all set for opening-week matches, including Qatar’s Group B opener against Switzerland in San Francisco. Qatar in Focus: Qatar’s Group B rivals are Canada and Switzerland, and the full group draw is now set. Qatar Football Build-Up: Canada called up Jayden Nelson to replace injured Marcelo Flores; Qatar’s World Cup campaign starts right after the tournament’s opening wave. Referee Controversy: Former England striker Ian Wright blasted a “World Cup of chaos” after Somali referee Omar Artan was denied US entry and removed from FIFA’s roster. Cyber & Capacity: Qatar’s National Cyber Security Agency wrapped up its “From Adoption to Impact Creation” event, highlighting training progress and AI-ready cyber readiness. Inclusion at Home: The Prime Minister honoured 36 Shafallah Center graduates for persons with disabilities, underscoring Qatar’s inclusion push. Diplomacy: Qatar and the Federated States of Micronesia signed a joint statement to establish diplomatic relations. Regional Security: Sweden condemned Iran’s attacks on Qatar and neighbours, backing diplomacy and de-escalation. Construction & Industry: Project Qatar 2026 opened in Doha with 145 exhibitors under “Manufacture, Build, Innovate.” Energy Shock: Qatar halted LNG production amid regional strikes, as oil and gas facilities shut for precaution.