US Rights Groups Call for Vigilance Among World Cup Travelers

More than 120 organizations have issued a ‘travel advisory’ to fans, athletes, journalists, and other attendees of the upcoming World Cup, urging them to “exercise caution” while visiting the United States. The warning stems from concerns about the Trump administration’s “aggressive immigration enforcement measures,” which the groups say could lead to entry denial, arrests, and heightened risks for travelers. This includes potential restrictions on citizens from over 30 countries, as well as social media monitoring and racial profiling.

Fifa’s Ties to US Leadership Under Scrutiny

Among the organizations is the American Civil Liberties Union, which has asked Fifa to “pressure US authorities to respect the fundamental human rights of every person attending the games.” The groups highlight that Fifa president Gianni Infantino maintains close relationships with US President Donald Trump, raising questions about the organization’s stance on immigration policies. In December, Infantino awarded Trump the first-ever Fifa Peace Prize, further intensifying criticism.

“The Trump administration’s rising authoritarianism and increasing violence pose serious risks to all,” the advisory states.

Travel bans have been imposed on nationals from four participating nations: Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast. The coalition argues that travelers should prepare by removing sensitive data from their devices and informing loved ones about their itinerary. The United States is co-hosting the event with Canada and Mexico, with 78 of the 104 matches scheduled to take place in the US.

Amnesty International’s Warning on Repression

Last month, Amnesty International warned that the World Cup could become “a stage for repression and a platform for authoritarian practices.” This comes amid ongoing debates about the militarization of police forces in the US, which fan group Football Supporters Europe (FSE) highlighted earlier this year as a growing concern. The White House’s World Cup Task Force responded by asserting that the tournament will be “the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history,” promising a secure and memorable experience for all.

Immigration enforcement has been a central focus of Trump’s administration, with the Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agency expanding its operations and budget. Critics have raised alarms over ICE’s methods, particularly after the deaths of two US citizens during protests against the policy. US officials have confirmed that ICE agents will be part of the World Cup security team, adding to the apprehension of some visitors.

The advisory emphasizes that minority communities are especially at risk, with the potential for targeted actions during the event. While Fifa claims it is “committed to respecting all internationally recognized human rights,” the groups argue that concrete assurances are still lacking, especially as its leadership remains aligned with the Trump administration.