Rights groups have raised alarms about the safety of journalists and fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States amid President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown. [1, 2] The 48-team expanded tournament is set to begin next week and will be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico. [1, 2]
The Sport & Rights Alliance criticized FIFA for failing to adequately address potential human rights threats linked to visa restrictions, border enforcement, and policing related to immigration policies. [1, 2] Andrea Florence, executive director of the coalition of rights groups, said, "FIFA's weak response to the human rights threats documented by local groups and global civil society organisations means that we are witnessing a distinctively dangerous climate of fear, uncertainty, and repression." [1] Florence added that "President Donald Trump's harsh anti-human rights rhetoric, aggressive immigration policies, and mass deportation raids have already cast a dark shadow over the world's biggest sporting event." [2]
Some travelers and local residents have expressed fears about Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity during the tournament due to Trump’s policies. [1, 2] Iran, citing security concerns after US and Israel joint strikes on Iran in late February, moved its planned World Cup base camp from Arizona to Mexico prior to the tournament start. [1, 2]
The White House pushed back on these concerns, calling the World Cup "one of the greatest and most spectacular events in the history of mankind" and stressing coordinated security efforts across federal, state, and local agencies. [1, 2] White House spokesman Davis Ingle said, "President Trump is focused on ensuring that this is not only an incredible experience for all fans and visitors, but also the safest and most secure in history – and no amount of ridiculous scare tactics driven by liberal activist groups and the left-wing media will change that." [1]
Critics have also targeted FIFA president Gianni Infantino for his close ties to President Trump as concerns persist about the tournament’s environment. [1, 2]
The World Cup is scheduled to kick off in July 2026, marking the largest tournament expansion with 48 teams competing across North America. [1, 2]