Human rights organisation Amnesty International, alongside dozens of U.S. civil and rights groups, has warned fans, players, and journalists to exercise caution when travelling to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The advisory highlights what it describes as a “deteriorating human rights situation” under President Donald Trump, citing aggressive immigration enforcement, increased surveillance, and risks of arbitrary detention as major concerns for international visitors.
According to the coalition, travellers entering the U.S. could face denial of entry despite holding valid visas, as border officials retain wide discretionary powers.
The advisory also raises concerns about invasive searches of electronic devices, including mobile phones and social media accounts, which may be scrutinised for content deemed “anti-American” by authorities.
The warning further points to expanded travel restrictions affecting nationals from multiple countries. Full entry bans reportedly apply to 19 nations, while partial restrictions impact others, including Nigeria.
These policies, the groups argue, create uncertainty and increase the risk of discrimination, particularly for individuals from immigrant backgrounds, racial minorities, and LGBTQ+ communities.
In several major cities expected to host World Cup matches including Los Angeles, Chicago, and Minneapolis, the advisory alleges that intensified immigration operations have led to accusations of racial profiling and heavy-handed policing.
Reports of arrests during protests and the use of surveillance technologies such as drones and facial recognition were also cited as areas of concern.
The organisations claim that individuals detained under immigration enforcement may face poor conditions, including limited access to legal representation and healthcare. Data referenced in the advisory indicates a rise in the number of people held in detention facilities, alongside reported deaths in custody.
However, the claims have been strongly rejected by U.S. tourism officials. U.S. Travel Association President Geoff Freeman dismissed the advisory as politically motivated, arguing that it exaggerates risks and could harm millions of workers who rely on tourism.
Freeman noted that the United States welcomed approximately 67 million international visitors in the past year, insisting that the country remains a safe destination. He acknowledged that entry procedures can be strict but maintained that the portrayal of widespread danger is misleading.
World football governing body FIFA also responded by reiterating its commitment to human rights. The organisation stated that it continues to work with host nations to uphold international standards and ensure the safety of all participants during the tournament.
Despite reassurances, concerns remain within the travel and hospitality sectors. Reports suggest that international visitor numbers have declined since Trump’s return to office, with some analysts linking the trend to strained diplomatic relations and stricter immigration policies.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on June 11, with matches set to take place across 11 cities in the United States, as well as venues in Canada and Mexico. Organisers are hoping the global appeal of the tournament will outweigh ongoing concerns and deliver a significant economic boost.
For now, the situation presents a complex backdrop to what is expected to be one of the biggest sporting events in the world, raising questions about how politics and policy may shape the experience for millions of fans travelling to the tournament.
