April 24, 2026
Leading human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, along with several U.S.-based civil rights groups, have issued a “World Cup travel warning” for international visitors planning to attend the upcoming tournament in the United States.
The warning comes amid concerns over what the groups describe as increasing authoritarian tendencies and heightened risks of violence during the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump. They argue that intensified immigration enforcement measures could negatively affect foreign spectators traveling for the event.
In a joint statement, the organizations cited a “deteriorating human rights environment” in the United States and criticized the lack of “meaningful action or clear assurances” from authorities, host cities, and tournament organizers. They warned that visitors could face arbitrary denial of entry, detention under “inhumane conditions,” and invasive searches of personal devices, including phones and social media accounts.
The advisory specifically mentioned reports of aggressive immigration operations in cities such as Los Angeles, Chicago, and Minneapolis. These actions, according to the groups, have raised allegations of racial profiling and excessive force used to suppress protests.
Responding to the concerns, the U.S. Travel Association’s President and CEO, Geoff Freeman, acknowledged that while some apprehensions regarding entry policies are valid, they are being exaggerated. He noted that approximately 67 million international tourists visited the United States last year, highlighting the country’s continued openness to global travelers.
Meanwhile, a spokesperson for FIFA reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to internationally recognized human rights standards. The governing body stated it would continue working to promote and safeguard these rights throughout the tournament.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 11 and will be jointly hosted across North America. A total of 104 matches will be played, with games taking place in 11 stadiums across the United States, along with additional venues in Canada and Mexico.
