Rights groups warn World Cup travelers to U.S. of potential discrimination and detention
Rights groups warn World Cup travelers to U.S. of potential discrimination and detention
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Human rights organizations have issued a warning to travelers heading to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cautioning that visitors could face discrimination, arbitrary detention, or even deportation.
The alert, signed by dozens of groups including the American Civil Liberties Union and the NAACP, comes weeks before the tournament begins across North America.
The organizations said the event is taking place amid a broader immigration crackdown under President Donald Trump’s administration, alongside concerns over declining federal protections for racial minorities.
According to the warning, fans, players, journalists, and other visitors may face racial profiling, electronic device searches, or harsh treatment if detained in immigration facilities. Migrants and ethnic minorities were identified as particularly at risk, with groups advising travelers to exercise caution and prepare contingency plans.
The ACLU urged FIFA to use its influence to press U.S. authorities to uphold human rights protections for all visitors and residents in host cities. It noted that, so far, no concrete guarantees have been provided.
FIFA said it remains committed to respecting internationally recognized human rights and highlighted measures such as advisory bodies focused on rights protections.
Meanwhile, Amnesty International has also raised concerns, stating the tournament risks falling short of being “safe, welcoming, and inclusive.”
The 2026 World Cup is scheduled to begin in June, with matches hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, including games in 11 U.S. cities.
