120 groups issue travel advisory to US World Cup visitors

Rights groups have urged fans, players, journalists, and other visitors attending this summer’s World Cup to “exercise caution” when travelling to the United States, citing concerns over immigration enforcement and civil liberties.

As reported by BBC Sport on Friday, more than 120 organisations jointly issued a travel advisory warning of what they describe as risks linked to “the Trump administration’s violent and abusive immigration crackdown.”

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

The coalition said minority groups in particular could face “serious harm” and criticised the president of football’s world governing body, Gianni Infantino, over his close ties to U.S. President Donald Trump.

The group, which includes the American Civil Liberties Union, called on FIFA to pressure U.S. authorities to guarantee the rights and safety of all visitors.

US officials have not yet responded to the advisory. However, FIFA said it remains committed to international human rights standards and promoting their protection throughout the tournament.

It added that it has established human rights frameworks and advisory structures as part of its preparations for the competition.

The rights groups warned of possible risks, including denial of entry into the United States, arrest, travel restrictions affecting citizens from several countries, social media screening, racial profiling, and increased surveillance.

They also highlighted existing travel bans affecting nationals from four countries participating in the tournament: Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and the Ivory Coast.

Travellers were advised to take precautions such as removing sensitive information from mobile devices and keeping family members informed of travel plans.

The United States will co-host the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, with 78 of the 104 matches scheduled to be played in the US.

The coalition criticised FIFA for what it called a lack of “concrete guarantees” for visitor safety, while noting closer ties between Gianni Infantino and the US administration.

In December, Infantino awarded President Donald Trump the FIFA Peace Prize.

Immigration enforcement remains a central policy focus in the US, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) expanding its operations and budget. The agency has faced criticism over its methods, particularly following protests against immigration crackdowns.

US officials have said ICE personnel will be part of World Cup security operations. Earlier this year, Football Supporters Europe warned of concerns over the increasing militarisation of policing in the country.

A recent report by Amnesty International also warned that the World Cup could become “a stage for repression and a platform for authoritarian practices.”

In response, the White House World Cup Task Force said the tournament will be “the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history,” adding that it is working to ensure a secure and well-organised competition.

It said fans can expect “a smooth, secure and truly unforgettable tournament.”