Rights groups warn of Trump-era travel risks for World Cup visitors to US
A coalition of more than 120 civil rights organisations has warned that visitors travelling to the United States for this summer’s FIFA World Cup should take precautions, citing concerns about immigration enforcement and civil liberties.
In a joint advisory, the groups—including the American Civil Liberties Union—urge fans, players and journalists to “exercise caution” when entering the country. They link their warning to what they describe as an increasingly aggressive immigration policy under President Donald Trump.
“The Trump administration's rising authoritarianism and increasing violence pose serious risks to all,” the advisory states.
Campaigners argue that certain groups may face heightened risks. They say minority communities, in particular, could be vulnerable to discrimination, stricter scrutiny at borders and other forms of harm during the tournament.
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The advisory also highlights concerns about US entry policies. Travellers could face denied entry, social media screening, surveillance measures and possible racial profiling, according to the groups. Current restrictions affect nationals from several countries participating in the tournament, including Iran, Haiti, Senegal and Ivory Coast.
Visitors are encouraged to take precautions such as limiting sensitive information stored on electronic devices and keeping family or friends informed of their travel plans.
The United States will host the majority of matches—78 out of 104—across the expanded tournament, which it is co-hosting with Canada and Mexico.
The coalition has also criticised FIFA and its president, Gianni Infantino, accusing football’s governing body of failing to secure clear guarantees for the safety and rights of visitors. Infantino’s relationship with President Trump has drawn particular scrutiny from rights advocates.
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In response, FIFA said it remains “committed to respecting all internationally recognised human rights” and pointed to policies and advisory mechanisms it has established in connection with the competition.
'Concerns about security and policing have also been raised elsewhere. Amnesty International has warned the World Cup could risk becoming “a stage for repression,” while some fan groups have expressed unease about the role of US immigration authorities in tournament security.
US officials have yet to directly address the advisory. However, the White House’s World Cup Task Force has previously said it aims to deliver “the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history,” promising a secure and well-organised tournament for international visitors.
Sources: BBC Sport, Amnesty International, American Civil Liberties Union
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