The Football Australia has appealed to authorities in Melbourne to reverse a decision banning public viewing events for the 2026 FIFA World Cup at Federation Square.
The association expressed strong disappointment after the Melbourne Arts Precinct declined to host live screenings, citing safety concerns linked to previous incidents of unruly fan behaviour.
Football Australia CEO Martin Kugeler argued that the decision undermines Melbourne’s reputation as a global sporting hub and a multicultural city. He noted that the World Cup brings diverse communities together and creates memorable shared experiences for fans.
However, Katrina Sedgwick, CEO of the Melbourne Arts Precinct, defended the ban, explaining that it was necessary due to safety risks posed by a small group of fans. She highlighted past events where flares and fireworks were set off in crowded spaces, leading to injuries.
The debate comes as Australia’s national team prepares for the tournament, with scheduled matches against Turkey in Vancouver, the United States in Seattle, and Paraguay in California.
Former Socceroo Craig Foster also weighed in, urging stakeholders to reconsider what he described as an unreasonable decision.