Human Rights Watch has formally challenged FIFA over concerns that U.S. immigration and civil rights policies under President Donald Trump could negatively impact the safety, access, and rights of participants in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. While the White House assures smooth procedures, global scrutiny continues to grow around how politics could influence the world’s biggest football event.
Human Rights Watch Raises Concerns Over 2026 World Cup in U.S.
Human Rights Watch (HRW), a leading international advocacy group, has publicly urged FIFA to reconsider the decision to hold the 2026 World Cup in North America, particularly the United States. This comes amid growing concern over U.S. immigration policies under the administration of President Donald Trump. The organization expressed fears that the rights of fans, players, and journalists could be at risk due to current and proposed policies regarding entry and civil liberties.
Letter Sent to FIFA President Infantino
In a letter dated May 5 and obtained by POLITICO, Minky Worden, HRW’s Director of Global Initiatives, asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to set clear benchmarks and deadlines for policy changes that would ensure the protection of international visitors. The letter stressed that if such conditions are not met, FIFA must be prepared to “reconsider the hosting decision.”
Key Issues Highlighted by Human Rights Watch
HRW’s letter outlines several key areas of concern, including:
- Possible visa bans targeting specific countries
- Detention and interrogation of foreign visitors at the U.S. border
- Excessively long visa waiting times
- New laws potentially affecting LGBTQ+ individuals
- Limits on peaceful protest and freedom of expression
The organization stated that these policies may violate FIFA’s own human rights statutes, which commit the organization to upholding principles of inclusion and non-discrimination.
White House Response: “A Seamless Experience”
Despite these warnings, President Trump has promised full government support to ensure the success of both the upcoming 2025 Club World Cup and the 2026 tournament. Speaking during a World Cup Task Force meeting in Washington, Trump said, “Every part of the U.S. government will be working to ensure that these events are safe and successful, and those traveling to America to watch the competition have a seamless experience.”
FIFA’s Silence Raises Eyebrows
FIFA has yet to publicly respond to the letter or comment on HRW’s demands. However, previous reports suggest that Infantino has privately assured officials that U.S. immigration rules would not hinder the tournament. The lack of a public stance has prompted further concern from advocacy groups and fans worldwide.
International Implications and Precedents
The 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, follows two politically sensitive tournaments—2018 in Russia and 2022 in Qatar. Critics argue that without firm safeguards, the 2026 event risks similar controversy. The tournament is expected to draw over 6.5 million attendees, making global access and inclusion a logistical and diplomatic priority.
Unanswered Questions to FIFA
Human Rights Watch posed several questions to FIFA, including:
- What steps is FIFA taking to ensure safe entry for players, fans, and journalists?
- How will FIFA respond if discrimination or wrongful treatment occurs during the tournament?
- What is FIFA doing to push for policy alignment with its human rights commitments?
The absence of clear answers from FIFA continues to fuel uncertainty.
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