Visa Restrictions Undermine Tournament's Inclusivity Promise
The 2026 World Cup was billed as the most inclusive tournament ever, with the format expanded from 32 to 48 teams to give smaller footballing nations a chance to shine.
Yet a series of strict U.S. visa policies have kept many fans, journalists and support staff from entering the country, casting doubt on that promise.
Countries such as Morocco, Egypt, Jordan, Iraq and Uzbekistan have reported significant delays or outright denials, leaving their delegations unable to attend the matches.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has insisted that immigration decisions are ultimately a matter for national authorities, while U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Markwayne Mullin has defended the denials, saying his department worked closely with FIFA officials.
Among those affected is Somali World Cup referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, who was barred from boarding a flight despite holding a valid visa; officials cited alleged links to terror networks as the justification.
The Sport & Rights Alliance has warned that the restrictions jeopardize the safety of journalists and supporters, and it plans to publish a detailed report in September outlining the human‑rights implications of the visa regime.
Amid the controversy, the tournament has produced uplifting stories: Haiti’s first appearance in decades and Cape Verde’s surprising run have been celebrated, and rainbow flags flew at a Pride Match Day in Seattle, underscoring a desire for inclusion.
Ronan Evain, a leading advocate for fan rights, said the situation reflects a broader disconnect between FIFA’s rhetoric and the lived experience of many supporters.