Rights Concerns Shadow World Cup

Amnesty International has issued a stark warning to football supporters ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cautioning that fans travelling to the United States, Canada and Mexico could face “serious human rights violations” during the tournament. The organisation argues that the promises made by FIFA and the host nations to deliver a “safe, welcoming and inclusive” global sporting event are increasingly at risk of being undermined.

In a report published on Sunday, Amnesty said that the United States—set to host the majority of matches—is experiencing what it describes as an “emergency human rights situation”. It also raised significant concerns about Mexico and Canada, arguing that deteriorating conditions across all three host nations could directly affect spectators, residents and participants alike.

The 2026 tournament will feature 104 matches, with 78 scheduled in the United States across 11 host cities. Amnesty claims that heightened security policies, restrictive immigration enforcement and limits on peaceful protest could create an atmosphere of fear around what is intended to be a celebratory global event.

Host nations under scrutiny

In Mexico, nearly 100,000 security personnel have reportedly been deployed to combat organised violence, a move Amnesty warns could increase risks for civilians during the tournament period. In Canada, the closure of a Toronto winter shelter for homeless individuals—reportedly to make way for FIFA-related use—has been cited as an example of social harm linked to event preparation.

Amnesty’s most severe criticism is directed at the United States. The report highlights what it calls discriminatory immigration policies and the use of masked, armed agents from Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP), warning that large-scale arrests and detentions could disproportionately affect migrants and visitors.

The organisation further argues that cooperation agreements between local law enforcement and federal immigration agencies in cities such as Dallas, Houston and Miami may increase racial profiling and the targeting of migrant communities. Amnesty describes such enforcement practices as resembling “semi-militarised operations”.

Visa restrictions and travel barriers

Concerns have also been raised over tightening entry requirements for visitors from certain countries. According to reports, some fans may be required to pay visa bonds of up to $15,000 (approximately £12,000) in order to enter the United States. Critics argue that such measures could effectively exclude supporters from lower-income nations and undermine the global inclusivity of the tournament.

A controversial visa bond pilot scheme has already been applied to 50 countries, including several whose national teams have qualified for the World Cup. Nations such as Algeria, Cape Verde, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Tunisia are among those affected or set to be included under the policy.

Freedom of expression concerns

Amnesty also warns of restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly across all three host countries. The report alleges that increased surveillance measures, including social media screening of travellers, could lead to intrusive monitoring of fans’ political views and online activity.

Amnesty’s Steve Cockburn highlighted the scale of immigration enforcement in the United States, noting that over 500,000 people were deported in 2025 alone. He warned that such policies contribute to a climate of fear that may extend to international supporters attending the tournament.

He added that while FIFA is expected to generate record revenues from the World Cup, the burden should not fall on fans, local communities, journalists, players or workers. According to Cockburn, only a small number of host cities have published human rights plans, and none have adequately addressed protections against immigration-related abuses.

Official responses

A spokesperson for the United States State Department said that preparations are focused on ensuring a safe and successful tournament, emphasising that the government aims to provide a smooth experience for international visitors. Authorities also stated that a dedicated White House taskforce is overseeing security planning and remains alert to potential threats.

FIFA has been contacted for comment but has yet to issue an official response.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin on 11 June and conclude on 19 July, marking the first time the tournament will be jointly hosted by three countries. Despite the sporting anticipation, Amnesty insists that human rights must remain central to every stage of planning and execution.