The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to begin June 11 across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, has been affected by the Trump administration’s immigration policies in the US host cities. [1] Since January 2025, the administration has escalated militarized immigration enforcement, targeting immigrants, protesters, minorities, and civil society, leading to significant disruptions ahead of the tournament. [1, 2]

From January 20, 2025, to March 10, 2026, at least 167,000 arrests were made by ICE within 11 US cities hosting World Cup matches. [1] These enforcement operations have increased anxiety among fans and residents near the venues. [2]

Several World Cup participants and officials have faced visa and entry challenges. Somali referee Omar Artan was denied US entry despite holding a valid visa, reported by BBC Sport on June 8, 2026. [2] Iraqi player Aymen Hussein was detained for nearly seven hours at Chicago O’Hare airport. [2] An Iraqi team photographer was refused entry altogether, and Iranian players only received their visas shortly before the event. [2]

These issues stem partly from a 2025 Trump administration travel ban affecting 39 countries, including Somalia, Haiti, Iran, Senegal, and Ivory Coast—nations with teams or fans expected at the World Cup. [2] The ban complicates travel and visa processing for players, officials, and supporters from these countries.

Multiple US soccer fan groups have endorsed a travel advisory warning visitors about the heightened risks posed by current immigration policies, citing dangers to immigrant, minority, and LGBTQ+ communities. [1] Similarly, European supporter group Three Lions Pride announced it would avoid visible presence at US matches due to concerns about human rights rollbacks under the Trump administration. [1]

With just over nine months remaining until the tournament kickoff, concerns continue over potential ICE enforcement operations near World Cup venues and the impact of restrictive travel measures on participants and spectators alike. [1, 2]

Authorities and organizers face ongoing pressure to address these issues to ensure a smooth event starting June 11, 2026.