FIFA: U.S. to Welcome Fans for 2026 World Cup

LUQUE, Paraguay — FIFA President Gianni Infantino declared that fans from around the world will be welcome in the United States for both the 2026 World Cup and this year’s Club World Cup, following talks with U.S. government officials.

Infantino made the announcement Thursday during the 74th FIFA Congress in Paraguay, days after meeting members of a White House task force convened under former President Donald Trump’s administration.

“We had a meeting last week of the White House Task Force on FIFA World Cups with the government of the United States (…) And the world is welcome in America,” Infantino said.

“Of course, the players, of course, everyone involved, all of us, but definitely also all the fans,” he continued. “And let’s be clear about that. This doesn’t come from me; this comes from the American government.”

Infantino emphasized that while the U.S. is open to football fans, security concerns remain paramount.

“Those who want to come to celebrate football … Those who want to come to create trouble, like in every country in the world, they are not welcome. They are not welcome anywhere in the world,” he added.

The statement arrives amid global scrutiny of the U.S.’s immigration policies under Trump, whose administration has pushed aggressive enforcement measures and described illegal immigration as an “invasion.”

Andrew Giuliani, son of former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani and a former White House aide, has been appointed executive director of the presidential task force for the 2026 World Cup.

Trump said last week he wanted visitors attending the tournaments to enjoy a seamless experience at every stage of their trip to the U.S.

The United States is set to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Mexico and Canada.

Before that, the country will also stage the expanded FIFA Club World Cup from June 14 to July 13, 2025, featuring 32 teams across 11 American cities.

The FIFA Congress also addressed a controversial proposal submitted by the Palestine Football Association, calling for sanctions against Israel’s football body over alleged violations of international law and the inclusion of clubs based in occupied Palestinian territories.

“One topic I would like to mention is the item requested by the Palestine Football Association. Let me assure you that the work has obviously started and is moving ahead,” Infantino said.

“Let me assure you also that progress is being made,” he added, though no resolution was passed.

The Palestinian proposal called for the immediate expulsion of Israeli clubs operating in the West Bank and East Jerusalem, areas considered illegally occupied under international law.

The Israel Football Association has denied all allegations and did not speak during the Congress.

“Not having taken a decision is not a neutral act,” said a Palestinian delegate. “In one month, FIFA should present us with a report to find out what is going on.”

Infantino has not indicated whether a formal vote or disciplinary action will follow, but promised an update in the coming weeks.