[2026 World Cup] Over 100 Human Rights Organizations Issue Travel Warning: Spectators in the U.S. May Face Human Rights Violations

More than 120 human rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union, issued a travel warning on the 23rd, stating that under the current U.S. government immigration policies, visitors attending the 2026 World Cup may face “serious human rights violations.”

According to AFP, the coalition stated that fans, players, journalists, and other travelers coming to the U.S. to watch the matches may all be affected by the Trump administration’s “harsh immigration and anti-human rights agenda.”

They called on FIFA to pressure the U.S. government to ensure the safety of all entrants. FIFA president Gianni Infantino is considered to have a close relationship with U.S. President Trump, and the two are often seen interacting together.

ACLU Human Rights Project Director Dakwar said: “While FIFA curries favor with the Trump administration and only pays lip service to human rights issues, it puts millions at risk of having their basic rights violated. Now is the time for FIFA to use its influence to push for policy changes and seek binding guarantees so people can travel and watch the games safely.”

FIFA: Committed to Protecting Human Rights

The travel warning lists specific risks that foreign visitors may face, including: being arbitrarily denied entry, facing risks of arrest, detention or deportation; mandatory screening and searches of social media and electronic devices; violent immigration enforcement; and racial discrimination.

In response to this travel warning, FIFA quoted Article 3 of its statutes: “FIFA is committed to respecting all internationally recognized human rights and striving to promote their protection.”

This World Cup is being co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. Out of 104 matches, 78 will be held in the U.S. President Trump considers anti-immigration policy as a core part of his agenda during his second term in office.