Making sure right people come to US: Trump on visas for FIFA World Cup

US President Donald Trump said, as quoted by Reuters, his administration is taking steps to ensure that 'the right people' are allowed into the country for the FIFA World Cup 2026, as the United States prepares to host the biggest edition of football's showpiece event.

Speaking ahead of the tournament's opening match on Thursday, Trump said his administration was focused on facilitating travel for visitors while maintaining security and immigration standards. The United States is hosting the majority of the tournament's 104 matches as part of a joint bid with Canada and Mexico.

Trump's comments come at a time when the United States has faced criticism over its immigration and border policies in the lead-up to the tournament. Human rights groups and football



stakeholders have raised concerns over visa denials, travel restrictions and security checks involving players, officials and supporters.

United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Trk, as reported by AP, warned of issues related to "racial profiling, surveillance and immigration enforcement" even before the 48-team tournament gets underway.

Speaking at a briefing in Geneva, Trk called for a "massive rethink" of immigration policies, particularly in the United States, and expressed hope that ongoing concerns would not overshadow the World Cup.

"We have seen some of the scenes," Trk said, adding that major sporting events should provide a safe and dignified environment for players, officials, supporters and society as a whole.