Rights Groups Warn World Cup Visitors: U.S. Travel Could Be Risky
More than 120 civil society organizations, led by the ACLU and Amnesty International, have issued a travel advisory for international visitors planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. The warning, released Thursday, cites what it calls a worsening human rights climate in the country and a lack of concrete safeguards from FIFA, host cities, or the U.S. government.
The advisory comes as concerns mount over how President Donald Trump’s strict immigration policies might affect the estimated 5 to 10 million fans expected to travel to the U.S. for the tournament, which kicks off in June across 11 American cities, plus venues in Mexico and Canada.
Jamil Dakwar, director of the ACLU’s human rights program, accused FIFA of paying lip service to human rights while aligning with the Trump administration. “Millions of people risk being harmed and having their basic rights violated,” he said in a statement. “It’s past time for FIFA to push for binding assurances that make people feel safe to travel and enjoy the games.”
Jennifer Li of Dignity 2026, a coalition of grassroots groups in host cities, said organizers are still waiting for public commitments from FIFA and local officials. “The silence has been deafening,” she added.
The White House dismissed the advisory as scare tactics. Spokesperson Davis Ingle called the World Cup “one of the greatest events in history” and said President Trump is focused on making it “the safest and most secure” tournament ever.
The advisory flags six specific risks: arbitrary denial of entry, arrest or deportation at ports of entry, expanded travel restrictions, aggressive immigration enforcement, suppression of speech and protest, and dangerous conditions in immigration detention facilities. It notes that at least 14 people have died in ICE custody this year alone.
Groups recommend visitors secure their electronic devices, download emergency notification apps, and review “know your rights” guides before traveling. Amnesty International’s Daniel Norona warned that without guarantees from the U.S. government and host cities, the tournament could fall short of FIFA’s promise of a safe, inclusive event.