Passport Privilege Raises Concerns Over Access to World Cup Events Abroad

US Immigration Policies Affect World Cup Eligibility

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is approaching, and teams are currently competing to secure a spot in the tournament. However, a significant factor affecting eligibility is not related to team performance, but rather individual passports.

According to FIFA regulations, all participating teams must meet specific criteria, including ranking points earned through international matches. Nevertheless, passport requirements also come into play. While teams qualify based on their merits, individual travelers may face challenges when attempting to enter the host country.

US President Donald Trump’s strict immigration policies have raised concerns among fans from certain countries. The policies’ impact on World Cup eligibility is a complex issue, with passports playing a crucial role in determining who can participate.

FIFA has not explicitly stated how US immigration policies will affect World Cup participation. However, it is clear that individual travelers must meet specific requirements to enter the host country. These requirements may include obtaining visas or meeting certain visa waiver criteria.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As teams continue to compete for a spot in the tournament, fans from around the world are eagerly awaiting news on their eligibility. The impact of US immigration policies on World Cup participation remains uncertain, with passport requirements serving as a critical factor in determining who can participate.

Source: Al Jazeera