Amnesty warns 2026 World Cup risks becoming platform for rights abuses
London — Amnesty International warned on Monday that the 2026 FIFA World Cup, to be hosted across the United States, Canada and Mexico, risks becoming a “stage for repression,” citing concerns over security practices, immigration enforcement and restrictions affecting fans and communities.
In a report titled “Humanity Must Win,” the London-based rights group urged FIFA and host governments to take “urgent action” to ensure the safety and rights of players, supporters and local populations during the tournament, which begins on June 11.
Amnesty said FIFA’s pledge to deliver a tournament where everyone feels “safe, included and free to exercise their rights” contrasts with conditions in host nations, particularly the United States, which will stage the majority of the 104 matches.
The organization described the U.S. as facing a “human rights emergency” under Donald Trump, citing mass deportations, arbitrary arrests and what it characterized as “paramilitary-style” operations by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE). It noted that ICE officials have indicated the agency will play a central role in World Cup security arrangements.
The report also referenced public backlash following the killing of two U.S. citizens during protests against ICE raids in Minneapolis earlier this year.Gaps in fan protection measuresAmnesty said host city plans published so far do not clearly address how fans or residents would be shielded from immigration enforcement during the tournament.
It added that supporters from some participating nations, including Ivory Coast, Haiti, Iran and Senegal, could face travel restrictions to the United States.LGBTQ+ fan groups in Europe have also indicated reluctance to attend matches in the U.S., citing concerns over protections for transgender individuals.
FIFA has said the expanded 48-team tournament the largest in World Cup history will proceed as scheduled, with all qualified teams expected to participate. The governing body has not publicly responded to Amnesty’s latest report.
The organization expects to generate around $11 billion in revenue from the 2026 World Cup cycle, drawing renewed scrutiny from rights groups over its responsibilities toward stakeholders.
Steve Cockburn, Amnesty’s head of economic and social justice, said that while FIFA stands to benefit financially, “fans, communities, players, journalists and workers cannot be made to pay the price.
”The tournament is set to open in Mexico City and conclude on July 19 at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.
