2026 FIFA World Cup: Infantino Addresses Travel Concerns in USA Amid Policy Changes

FIFA president Gianni Infantino has clarified concerns over visa restrictions and immigration rules that have left the supporters concerned about traveling to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The global competition, which is to be co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, has been plagued by questions on whether officials and supporters from certain nations may be barred from entering the country because of shifting US immigration rules.

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Worries increased following the US government putting in place stricter immigration policies after the return of Donald Trump to power in November 2024.

The news triggered mass deportations and visa curbs, raising the question of whether the global biggest sporting event could be marred by political barriers.

While giving his Nairobi, Kenya address, Infantino dismissed the fears, saying that all football spectators and participating teams would be received without hindrance.

"Everyone will be invited next year to the World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The US and their co-host promised to deliver the experience of individuals traveling to their countries," Infantino told journalists at a news conference.

Infantino spoke on Saturday at the Villa Rosa Kempinski hotel, where he showed up unexpectedly at a CAF press conference hosted by the confederation's president Patrice Motsepe.

He had arrived in Nairobi the night before to watch the final of the African Nations Championship (CHAN 2024) between Madagascar and Morocco, played at Moi International Sports Centre, Kasarani.

In his characteristic symbolic and universal language, FIFA boss called his visit a homecoming. "It is my honor to be in my country, Kenya, and my continent, Africa, for the final of Chan 2024," he said.

The executive committee members of CAF who attended the presser were fourth vice president Bestine Kazadi Kitabala, fifth vice president Feizal Sidat, secretary general Mosengo-Omba Veron, and Head of TV Luxolo September.

Infantino used the platform to wish CAF and the East African co-hosts—Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda—well for what he referred to as an "excellent tournament."

In addition to immigration concerns, Infantino was also tasked with dealing with FIFA's bottomless appetite for more competitions and more formats. Unions of footballers, fans, and stakeholders have persistently voiced concerns regarding exhausted players, congested calendars, and the risk of overexposing fans to endless games.

"We are wary of the football calendar. We are trying to find a balance by engaging the whole world. Finding a balance keeps us active always," Infantino said.

The statement from FIFA's chief was reflected in the delicate balance being imposed as the governing body makes moves in ambitious expansion plans—dreaming of a 48-team World Cup, larger youth tournaments, and reworked club competitions.

Infantino also complimented Kenyan president William Ruto as "a great football fan" ahead of a scheduled meeting, suggesting FIFA's ambitions to further deepen cooperation with African authorities in building football.