'Inclusive' World Cup fell short as Trump administration shut out fans, rights groups say
Summary
The 2026 FIFA World Cup was the biggest ever, with 48 teams competing. However, many fans and workers from several countries were unable to attend because the Trump administration's visa policies blocked their entry into the U.S., which co-hosted the event.Key Facts
- The 2026 World Cup was expanded from 32 to 48 teams, allowing smaller countries to compete.
- The Trump administration's strict visa rules prevented many fans and workers from countries like Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq, and Uzbekistan from entering the U.S.
- Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was denied entry due to alleged links to terrorist groups despite holding a valid visa.
- Some countries, including Senegal, had very few fans in the stands because visa issuance was mostly suspended for their citizens.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino said immigration decisions are up to national authorities, and U.S. Homeland Security defended the visa denials.
- Rights groups, including the Sport & Rights Alliance, said the visa restrictions and immigration climate made the tournament less inclusive and created fear.
- The Sport & Rights Alliance plans to publish a detailed report in September about human rights issues related to the tournament.
- Despite these issues, some positive moments included Haiti’s first World Cup appearance in 52 years and rainbow flags shown at a Pride Match Day in Seattle.
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