2026 World Cup Host Cities Report Immigration Crackdown Impact

Organizers of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, hosted across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, acknowledge that geopolitical issues, including President Donald Trump's immigration crackdown and travel bans, may affect the tournament, which is scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Meg Kane, Philadelphia's host city executive, emphasized that while host cities do not control national decisions, they are committed to making all visitors feel welcome despite the uncertainty caused by these political developments. FIFA President Gianni Infantino reiterated that America will welcome the world, highlighting the importance of foreign tourists to the tournament's economic impact, projected at nearly $50 billion. Protests and tensions related to immigration enforcement, especially in California, have raised concerns about visitor willingness to travel to the U.S., but host city leaders stress the need to adapt and operate effectively amid these challenges. The travel ban exempts athletes and associated personnel but does not explicitly address fans, prompting ongoing discussions between FIFA and U.S. administrations regarding visas and tourism. Overall, officials recognize the complex interplay between international sport and politics but remain focused on ensuring a positive experience for attendees.