The Impact of U.S. Travel Policies on the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics

U.S. President Donald Trump has made significant headlines by expressing his enthusiasm for hosting monumental events like the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. These sporting spectacles promise not just athletic competition but also substantial economic opportunities and international unity. However, a cloud of uncertainty looms over these events, primarily due to recent changes in visa policies that could impact foreign visitors.

Understanding the Latest Travel Ban

In June 2025, President Trump announced a travel ban affecting citizens from 12 countries. These include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, the Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. New restrictions were also put in place for visitors from seven additional countries: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

The rationale behind these stricter measures stems from claims that these countries have “deficient” screening and vetting processes, which raises concerns about national security. According to Trump, these steps are designed to protect American citizens while also ensuring the integrity of major events hosted on U.S. soil.

Significance for the World Cup and Olympics

The 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, is set to be an extravagant display of soccer talent, with Iran being the only country from the banned list that has qualified thus far. Other countries like Cuba, Haiti, Sudan, and Sierra Leone are still contending for spots. For these nations, the travel ban presents significant hurdles.

However, there is a silver lining. The new policy allows for athletes and members of athletic teams, including coaches and immediate family, to receive visas under specific circumstances. This means while the athletic delegations might still participate in the World Cup, ensuring that they can attend their respective events, fans from these nations face limitations.

The Fan Experience

When it comes to supporters, the travel ban does not accommodate exceptions for fans traveling to the World Cup or Olympics. A considerable number of devoted fans, particularly from countries like Iran, may find it even more challenging to secure visas. Historically, Iranian soccer fans have faced bureaucratic hurdles in traveling for international tournaments.

This brings into focus a critical distinction between fans of national teams and club teams. The former often represent wealthier segments of the diaspora, making it feasible to travel despite expensive arrangements like flights and accommodation. In contrast, fans of club teams traveling for international competitions might not share the same financial resources.

Collaboration with FIFA and Olympic Officials

To navigate the challenges posed by the travel ban, the U.S. government has initiated discussions with FIFA and various Olympic officials. FIFA President Gianni Infantino, well-known for his close ties to Trump, participated in a White House meeting aimed at addressing these complexities. With FIFA projected to bring in a majority of its $13 billion revenue from events during the 2023-2026 period, ensuring smooth visa processes is crucial.

Infantino sat alongside Trump and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem at a task force meeting addressing these concerns. He emphasized the need for collaboration to facilitate the success of the World Cup and the subsequent Olympics.

Proactive Measures

LA28’s chairman, Casey Wasserman, expressed gratitude for federal recognition of the unique considerations required for hosting the Olympics. With a “fully staffed desk” at the State Department dedicated to expedited visa processing, organizers aim to mitigate any potential issues as the events draw nearer. While the focus is primarily on accommodating athletes, there’s an acknowledgment of the importance of ensuring that fans too can engage in the festivities.

Global Comparisons: Host Nation Policies

Many past host nations have implemented unique strategies to streamline visa requirements for sports events. In Russia during the 2018 World Cup, fans entered the country using match tickets as a form of a visa. Similarly, Qatar enacted leniencies for visitors during the 2022 World Cup. Such innovative policies could inspire the U.S. to adopt more flexible measures, especially given the heightened scrutiny surrounding visas and security.

Historically, some nations have faced difficulties with specific individuals. For instance, Belarus President Alexander Lukashenko was denied a visa for the 2012 London Olympics. The International Olympic Committee even suspended him from future events, illustrating that host nations can exercise discretion over entry permissions.

As preparations for the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics unfold, the intersection of sports, policy, and global diplomacy remains pivotal. The excitement surrounding these events offers an opportunity for cultural exchange, yet, as the narratives of visa challenges and travel restrictions continue to evolve, they may shape the nature of participation and enthusiasm from around the globe.