A major public viewing event for the 2026 FIFA World Cup organized by the military-linked telecommunications company Mytel is facing a widespread boycott from Yangon residents. Locals cite severe security concerns, including the threat of forced military conscription, and a staunch refusal to financially support the ruling regime.
The “World Cup 26 Fan Festival Myanmar” is being held at Yangon’s Thuwunna Stadium from July 14 to 19, encompassing the semi-finals, the third-place playoff, and the final match.
Conscription fears keep fans away
Despite promises of a festive atmosphere—featuring a massive LED screen, food stalls, and performances by prominent Myanmar vocalists like Phyo Gyi, Ni Ni Khin Zaw, and Sandi Myint Lwin—many young people are actively avoiding the venue.
“Most of the people who probably go are young people. So it’s really just a way to get young people out of their homes and make possible arrests,” a resident of Yangon’s South Okkalapa Township told DVB.
Another resident from Thaketa Township echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the security risks of being out late at night. “As for us, we won’t go even if we have to pay, and we won’t go even if it’s free… I’d rather just watch it on my phone at home.”
The FIFA broadcasting controversy
The fan festival has also reignited international outrage over the Fédération Internationale de Football Association’s (FIFA) decision to grant exclusive 2026 World Cup broadcasting rights in Myanmar to Mytel.
Mytel is a joint venture between the Myanmar military and Vietnam’s Viettel, which is administered by its Ministry of National Defence. The company has been a major target of consumer boycotts since the 2021 coup and was sanctioned by the U.S. in 2025 for providing surveillance services and financial support to the regime.
On June 12, international rights organizations, including Burma Campaign UK and Justice For Myanmar, fiercely condemned FIFA’s broadcasting deal. The groups argue that the agreement forces local football fans to financially support the junta if they want to legally watch the tournament.
- Funding the Regime: Rights groups warn that subscription fees and advertising revenues from Mytel’s TV360 platform flow directly into the military’s coffers, effectively subsidizing the purchase of lethal weapons used against civilians.
- Surveillance Risks: Justice For Myanmar accused FIFA of demonstrating an “unacceptable lack of due diligence,” highlighting that Mytel facilitates digital surveillance that endangers human rights activists.
“FIFA has chosen to take money from the Burmese military instead of ensuring football fans in Burma can enjoy watching the World Cup,” stated Mark Farmaner, director of Burma Campaign UK.
Empty seats despite promotions
To draw crowds, Mytel arranged for Yangon Bus Service (YBS) to transport spectators and set ticket prices ranging from 30,000 kyat ($6.98 USD) for individual matches up to 150,000 kyat ($34.88 USD) for an all-match VIP pass.
However, local sources indicate that ticket sales have been abysmal. Reports suggest that organizers have had to resort to “buy one, get one free” promotions in a desperate attempt to fill the stadium.
As the World Cup reaches its climax, the empty seats at Thuwunna Stadium serve as a stark visual reminder of the ongoing resistance against the 2021 coup and the profound impact of the crisis on everyday life in Myanmar.
