Qualifying football teams and civil rights organizations are warning against traveling through the United States ahead of World Cup matches, citing concerns over policies they say create a hostile environment for foreigners. The advisories come as teams from Europe, Africa, and South America prepare for upcoming qualifying rounds, with some federations explicitly flagging the U.S. as a potential risk area.

Rising Concerns Over U.S. Travel Policies

Civil rights groups, including American Civil Liberties Union, have long criticized U.S. immigration and border policies under the Trump administration, which they argue disproportionately target people of color, Muslims, and LGBTQ+ individuals. These concerns have resurfaced as teams finalize travel plans, with some federations consulting legal experts to assess risks for players and staff.

The warnings follow a 2024 U.S. Supreme Court ruling that upheld parts of Trump’s travel ban policy, which temporarily barred entry to citizens from several predominantly Muslim countries. While the ban was later modified, human rights advocates say its legacy continues to shape perceptions of the U.S. as an unwelcoming destination.

Teams Take Precautions

Several football federations have already adjusted travel routes to avoid U.S. airspace or layovers. The French Football Federation noted that it is evaluating alternative transit options following internal discussions about potential discrimination risks at U.S. airports. Other teams, including those from Nigeria and Brazil, have reportedly sought legal counsel to ensure compliance with local laws and to mitigate risks of profiling or detainment.

In a statement, FIFA reiterated its commitment to ensuring safe travel for all teams but did not directly address the travel warnings. The organization cited its existing policies, which require member associations to comply with local regulations while ensuring player safety.

Broader Implications for International Sports

The travel advisories highlight a growing trend of athletes and teams scrutinizing host countries for human rights records. Earlier this year, Qatar faced similar scrutiny ahead of the 2022 FIFA World Cup, with teams and advocacy groups raising concerns over labor conditions and discrimination. The U.S. now faces comparable scrutiny, particularly as it prepares to host major events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Legal experts warn that teams could face challenges if they encounter discriminatory treatment at U.S. airports or border crossings. “The risk isn’t just theoretical,” said Eleanor Acer, senior director at Human Rights First. “Teams have reported instances of heightened scrutiny, particularly for players of Middle Eastern or African descent, even under the Biden administration.”

As qualifying rounds approach, federations are expected to finalize travel plans by early 2025. Some teams are reportedly exploring private charter options to bypass U.S. transit entirely, while others are coordinating with immigration lawyers to navigate potential risks.

What You Need to Know

  • Source: Rolling Stone
  • Published: May 16, 2026 at 13:00 UTC
  • Category: Entertainment
  • Topics: #music · #rolling-stone · #culture · #sports · #football · #world-cup

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Curated by GlobalBR News · May 16, 2026

🇧🇷 Resumo em Português

O sonho de milhões de torcedores que desembarcarão nos Estados Unidos para a Copa do Mundo de 2026 pode esbarrar em um novo obstáculo: a crescente onda de hostilidade percebida contra estrangeiros no país, especialmente sob o governo de Donald Trump. Comitês de classificação das seleções e grupos de direitos civis já emitiram alertas oficiais desencorajando viagens pelo território americano, alegando riscos de discriminação, fiscalização arbitrária e até violência.

A polêmica ganhou força após relatos de atletas e delegações internacionais que sofreram abordagens agressivas em aeroportos, revistas excessivas e casos de recusa em acomodações por motivos étnicos ou religiosos. Nos últimos meses, a retórica anti-imigração nos EUA intensificou-se, com políticas que dificultam a entrada de pessoas de certos países e uma onda de crimes de ódio que já afetou turistas brasileiros. Para os cerca de 1 milhão de brasileiros que devem viajar ao país-sede da Copa, o alerta soa como um lembrete de que a emoção do maior torneio de futebol do mundo pode vir acompanhada de desafios inesperados.

A situação exige atenção redobrada dos órgãos brasileiros de turismo e das próprias seleções, que já estudam rotas alternativas de deslocamento e protocolos de segurança extra para garantir que a paixão pelo esporte não se transforme em pesadelo.