The Trump administration has signaled it will not rule out immigration enforcement operations, including raids and detentions, during the 2026 World Cup co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, sparking concerns from human rights organizations.
Andrew Giuliani, who leads the White House task force for the international sporting event, stated President Trump’s unwavering focus on national security. “I must emphasize that President Trump rules out nothing that makes this country safer,” Giuliani said during a press conference in Washington.
His comments came ahead of the World Cup draw at the Kennedy Center, an event expected to be attended by Donald Trump. Giuliani added that “security and hospitality can walk hand in hand” during the tournament, which is scheduled from June 11 to July 19 next year.
However, Human Rights Watch (HRW) has already expressed alarm regarding the safety of foreign visitors. The organization denounced the detention of an asylum seeker who attended a FIFA Club World Cup final in the United States this past July.
HRW said the incident involved a father who took his children to the match in New Jersey and was subsequently detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). He was held for three months before being sent to a country where he claims his life is in danger.
Minky Worden, HRW Director of Global Initiatives, criticized the incident. She stated that U.S. immigration enforcement policies at major sporting events “can separate families and expose people fleeing persecution to mortal danger.”
This detention, according to HRW, “illustrates the limitations of FIFA’s efforts to address serious human rights risks that foreigners face at FIFA events.” The organization urged FIFA to press U.S. authorities to avoid focusing on World Cup events for immigration law enforcement, as it observed during the Club World Cup.
When questioned about potential visa denials for World Cup attendees, Giuliani reiterated the administration’s stance. “Every visa decision is a national security decision” for the U.S. government, he explained.
Despite this, Giuliani confirmed a recent announcement by Trump and FIFA. Anyone holding a ticket for a World Cup match is guaranteed access to immigration authorities to attempt to obtain a visa.
He also noted efforts to streamline visa processes. Waiting times for consular sections in countries like Argentina, Ecuador, and Brazil have been reduced to less than two months. Many European nations and Japan benefit from visa waiver programs.
Regarding countries on a U.S. travel ban list, such as Haiti and Iran, Giuliani mentioned “some elements” of their team delegations have secured exemptions for entry. However, for fans from these nations, he referred inquiries about visas to the State Department.
Giuliani also warned against potential disruptions, stating, “What we will not tolerate are riots that threaten security.” The 2026 World Cup will unfold against the backdrop of Donald Trump’s presidency and its impact on immigration policy.