World Cup Alert: Rights Groups Warn US Over Safety Concerns Ahead Of Tournament

A coalition of over 120 human rights organisations has called on fans, players, and journalists travelling to this summer’s tournament to “be cautious” when visiting the United States.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

In a joint statement, the groups cited what they described as “violent and abusive immigration enforcement” under the Trump administration, warning that minority communities could face heightened risks of harm.

The advisory also criticises FIFA president Gianni Infantino over his close ties with Donald Trump. It claims that “rising authoritarianism and increasing violence” in the US present serious safety concerns for visitors.

Among the signatories is the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), which urged FIFA to pressure US authorities to uphold the human rights of all visitors attending the World Cup.

FIFA has not directly responded to the warning but reiterated its commitment to respecting internationally recognised human rights and promoting their protection.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the majority of matches scheduled to take place in the US.

The rights groups warned that travellers could face issues such as entry denials, detention, travel restrictions, social media screening, racial profiling, and increased surveillance. They also pointed to existing travel bans affecting citizens from countries including Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast.

They further advised visitors to take precautions such as removing sensitive data from electronic devices and maintaining regular contact with family and friends while travelling.

The organisations also accused FIFA of failing to provide clear safety assurances, while noting Infantino’s growing engagement with the US leadership, including his presentation of FIFA’s inaugural Peace Prize to Donald Trump in 2025.

US immigration policy has remained a key focus of the current administration, with expanded powers and funding for Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), which is expected to play a role in World Cup security operations.

Earlier concerns have also been raised by fan groups and rights bodies over increasing militarisation of security forces and potential risks to civil liberties during the tournament.

In contrast, the White House World Cup Task Force insists the event will be “the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history,” assuring fans of a secure and well-organised tournament.

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