Washington, D.C.
Human rights advocates have issued an urgent travel advisory for international fans, players, and journalists planning to visit the United States for the 2026 World Cup. The warning comes as the country prepares for the world’s largest sporting event amid a tense political climate and strict new border policies.
A coalition of over 120 organizations, including the ACLU and the NAACP, signed the advisory. They warn that visitors could face “arbitrary detention” or “racial profiling” due to an aggressive immigration crackdown by the Trump administration. The groups expressed specific concern for travelers from immigrant communities, racial minorities, and the LGBTQ+ community, calling them the “most vulnerable to serious harm.”
The advisory suggests that international visitors carry an emergency plan and take precautions, such as securing electronic devices against invasive searches. Rights groups claim that despite the tournament being less than two months away, neither the U.S. government nor FIFA has provided sufficient guarantees for the safety and freedom of travelers. FIFA responded by stating it is “committed to respecting all recognized human rights” and has established a special advisory group to monitor the situation.
The 2026 World Cup, hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, begins in June and features 104 matches. Eleven American cities are set to host games, with the final taking place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey. Advocates are now urging FIFA to use its significant leverage to pressure federal authorities for policy changes that ensure a safe and inclusive environment for the millions of visitors expected this summer.