Rights groups have called on FIFA to make sure the 2026 World Cup stays safe and open for everyone. They warned that U.S. immigration rules and concerns about press freedom could hurt the spirit of the tournament.
The Sport & Rights Alliance said FIFA had promised a “safe, welcoming and inclusive” World Cup under its Human Rights Framework. But the group said some policies under U.S. President Donald Trump may create fear among fans, journalists and local communities.
The alliance shared its concerns in a letter to FIFA president Gianni Infantino. The letter was made public on Thursday.
“Football brings the world together,” the coalition wrote. “But it cannot do that if U.S. visa bans and deportation raids keep immigrants, workers, journalists, communities and fans away.”
The 2026 World Cup will be the first edition with 48 teams. The tournament will take place in the United States, Canada and Mexico. Matches will be played in 16 host cities.
The White House responded to the concerns. Spokesman Davis Ingle said the government is working to make the event successful.
“President Trump is focused on making this the greatest World Cup ever,” Ingle said. “At the same time, he wants it to be the safest and most secure in history.”
The rights coalition also asked FIFA to work closely with the host governments. It said fans and media must have proper access during the event. It also called for protection of free speech, press freedom and the rights of workers and local communities.
The group said many host cities have still not released their Human Rights Action Plans. These plans were supposed to explain how they would deal with possible rights issues.
“With weeks until kick-off, most of the 16 World Cup host committees have not shared their Human Rights Action Plans,” the group said. “You cannot manage human rights risks without first identifying them and setting up systems to deal with them.”
