There are some big questions about what President Trump will do.
With the 2026 World Cup set to arrive in the United States in just a few months, uncertainty is growing over whether all international fans will be able to attend — as U.S. travel restrictions collide with one of the world’s biggest sporting events.
President Donald Trump has recently approved a series of full and partial travel restrictions affecting more than 30 countries. While exemptions are in place for players, coaches, and official team staff, the policies could prevent many fans from traveling to the U.S. to support their national teams in person.
Among the impacted nations are Iran, Haiti, Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), and Senegal — all of which have qualified to compete in the tournament.
The United States is scheduled to co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico from June 11 through July 19, with matches spread across major North American cities.
International Fans Voice Concerns
Some supporters overseas say the restrictions could limit their ability to participate in what is traditionally a global celebration of sport. Senegal fan Djibril Gueye told The Associated Press that hosting a World Cup carries an expectation that fans will be able to attend.
“When a country agrees to host, it should also provide the means for supporters to travel and attend,” he said.
Another Senegal supporter, Sheikh Sy, said he traveled to the previous World Cup in Qatar and remains committed to attending matches in the U.S., despite uncertainty surrounding visas.
“We’ve followed our team everywhere,” Sy said. “Since Senegal has qualified, we will try every option possible.”
Senegal is scheduled to play its opening match against France on June 16.
Teams Hope Fan Issues Are Resolved
Some coaches have expressed concern that reduced fan attendance could affect the atmosphere inside stadiums. Ivory Coast head coach Emerse Faé described it as unfortunate if supporters are unable to attend but said he remains hopeful that accommodations will be made.
Faé pointed to past tournaments where visa challenges were resolved closer to kickoff. “In the end, things worked out smoothly,” he said. “I believe it will be the same this time.”
Ivory Coast is set to face Ecuador on June 14. Haiti opens its World Cup campaign on June 13 against Scotland, while Iran will play New Zealand on June 15.
Trump Administration Highlights Visa Plan
In November, President Trump announced a new “FIFA Pass” visa initiative aimed at prioritizing travel for verified ticket holders, while maintaining U.S. security standards.
“I’ve directed my administration to do everything within its power to make the 2026 World Cup an unprecedented success,” Trump said at the time, noting that early ticket sales are already breaking records.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino welcomed the initiative, saying the program would help ensure legitimate fans can attend matches without unnecessary delays.
To manage the anticipated surge in applications, the U.S. has deployed more than 400 additional consular officers worldwide to process World Cup-related visas.
High Stakes for a Global Event
The 2022 World Cup in Qatar attracted more than 3.4 million spectators, according to FIFA, setting a high benchmark for attendance.
Whether the United States can meet or exceed that level may depend on how smoothly travel and visa challenges are handled in the coming months.
For now, millions of fans around the world are waiting — hoping that security concerns, logistics, and international travel rules do not overshadow the world’s most watched sporting event.