Don’t Exclude the World from the World Cup
Unless conditions improve, the U.S. risks turning a celebration of global unity into a human rights controversy/HRW
The FIFA Club World Cup, held in the U.S. in June and July, intended as a preview for the 2026 World Cup, was overshadowed by low attendance and growing fear fueled by President Trump’s aggressive immigration policies.
Despite spending $50 million on promotion, empty seats highlighted public unease.
The tournament clashed with ICE raids, CBP’s intimidating rhetoric, and a Trump executive order banning travelers from 12 (and potentially more) countries.
Events like a FIFA countdown party were disrupted by federal agents, and immigrant communities—vital to the success of the 2026 tournament—are increasingly fearful.
Over 90 rights groups have urged FIFA to address these concerns.
Unless conditions improve, the U.S. risks turning a celebration of global unity into a human rights controversy.
Source: HRW
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