Civil Society’s Call to FIFA on Immigration Concerns for 2026 World Cup
As the world gears up for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which is set to occur in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, a significant wave of concern has emerged from civil society organizations. Ninety groups, primarily based in the U.S., have formally urged FIFA to intervene on behalf of football fans who may be adversely affected by the current U.S. immigration policies spearheaded by President Trump.
The Heart of the Matter: Immigration Policies
In a letter directed to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, these organizations express their “deep concern” regarding the implications of U.S. immigration enforcement for the anticipated influx of visitors to the World Cup. They emphasize the necessity for FIFA to leverage its influence to advocate for travelers’ rights, particularly for those coming to enjoy what is expected to be a monumental sporting event.
A Call for Action
The civil society groups implore FIFA to employ its platform to urge the Trump administration to reassess and soften its immigration policies. They worry that if FIFA remains silent, it risks becoming an instrument in the hands of the administration—a “public relations tool” that helps maintain a façade over its increasingly authoritarian reputation, they argue.
This dramatic appeal underscores the broader implications of political decisions on global cultural events, where the stakes extend far beyond mere sporting excitement. The letter’s signers include reputable organizations such as Human Rights Watch, Amnesty International, and the ACLU, alongside local civil rights groups and unions from various states that will host the games.
The Broader Context
The urgency of the situation is underscored by the heightened fear surrounding the Trump administration’s immigration enforcement actions, which have intensified since his return to office. According to the letter, these changes have led to a pervasive atmosphere of anxiety and uncertainty, potentially deterring international fans from attending the tournament.
Moreover, the correspondence mentions the travel advisories issued by certain foreign governments warning their citizens about the risks of being denied entry, detained, or deported when traveling to the U.S. It’s not just a matter of sporting passion—this involves the fundamental rights of individuals seeking to participate in a shared cultural celebration.
Targeted Restrictions and their Impact
The repercussions of these immigration policies are already being felt, particularly by nations like Iran, whose fans are barred from participating due to specific travel bans enacted by the administration. The letter highlights the broader implications for spectators from several countries that could qualify for the tournament, many of whom face invasive vetting procedures that often include scrutiny based on their political or religious beliefs.
The groups advocating for FIFA’s intervention argue that spectators from all corners of the globe should have the right to travel to the United States without fear of arbitrary barriers. The desired changes are framed not just in the context of sporting events, but as an essential affirmation of human rights and dignity against an increasingly stringent political backdrop.
Historical Precedents and Uncommon Alliances
Minky Worden, a director at Human Rights Watch, noted that such a coordinated plea from civil society organizations is relatively rare when it comes to U.S. mega-sporting events. The collaboration represents an unusual but vital cross-section of advocacy, driven by the conviction that international sports can and should be more than mere entertainment; they symbolize a global community that transcends borders.
Addressing Fans and Immigrants Alike
The letter calls for FIFA to advocate not only for the rights of foreign visitors but also for the constitutional rights of migrants already living in the U.S. The plea reflects a growing recognition that global sporting events can serve as a catalyst for broader social change.
The organizations emphasize that the stakes are high. They press for assurances that the millions of expected fans and the diverse immigrant communities in the U.S. will not live under the shadow of potential raids or deportation—a plea that resonates well beyond the soccer pitch.
In essence, the call to FIFA isn’t just about soccer; it epitomizes the intersection of sports, politics, and human rights, illustrating how a grand international event like the World Cup can become a stage for deeper societal challenges and aspirations.
