US rights groups issue World Cup travel warning over Trump policies

More than 120 rights organisations have issued a collective travel advisory urging fans, players and journalists to exercise caution when visiting the United States for this summer’s World Cup.

The sweeping warning is driven by concerns over what the coalition describes as a violent and abusive immigration crackdown by the Trump administration.

“The Trump administration’s rising authoritarianism and increasing violence pose serious risks to all,” the message states.

Targeted travel bans and screening risks

Minority groups are viewed by campaigners as particularly vulnerable to serious harm under the prevailing domestic policies.

The coalition has cautioned international visitors about the potential for denial of entry, racial profiling, and extensive social media screening.

Nationals from four participating countries – Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast – are already subject to strict governmental travel bans.

Travellers are being advised to remove sensitive information from their mobile devices and maintain constant communication with family members abroad.

Fifa’s relationship with the White House

Campaigners, including the American Civil Liberties Union, have heavily criticised football’s global governing body for failing to provide concrete safety guarantees.

Particular scrutiny has fallen on Gianni Infantino due to his increasingly close relationship with the American president.

The Swiss administrator notably awarded the inaugural Fifa Peace Prize to the Republican leader last December.

In response to the growing backlash, the international federation insisted it remains dedicated to protecting fundamental freedoms across all tournament operations.

“Fifa is committed to respecting all internationally recognised human rights and shall strive to promote the protection of these rights,” a spokesperson stated.

Immigration enforcement at the tournament

The United States is co-hosting the expanded global showpiece alongside North American neighbours Canada and Mexico.

An overwhelming majority of the fixtures, 78 of the 104 scheduled matches, will be played on American soil.

Domestic immigration enforcement has recently seen significant budget increases and a rapidly expanded operational scope.

Federal authorities have confirmed that controversial border agents will be actively involved in security operations during the major sporting event.