Several human rights organizations have written to FIFA expressing concern over safety and freedom issues ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The letter, sent to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, highlights worries about the impact of U.S. immigration and visa policies on fans, journalists, and migrant workers traveling to the tournament. The Sport and Rights Alliance stated that ensuring the safety of all foreign participants and visitors is essential for a global event of this scale.

The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada across 16 cities, marking the first time 48 teams will compete. However, discussions have already begun worldwide about the strict U.S. visa and travel regulations. The White House responded that the administration is focused on hosting a successful tournament, with spokesperson Davis Ingle noting President Donald Trump’s goal of ensuring one of the most secure World Cups in history.

Human rights groups warned that most host cities have yet to publish their human rights plans and urged early action to identify and mitigate potential risks before the tournament begins.