The road to the 2026 FIFA World Cup has taken a troubling turn, and this time, the controversy isn’t about football.
At least 15 countries that have already qualified for the 2026 World Cup may see their fans locked out of the tournament after the United States State Department suspended visa applications from 75 countries — a move that could significantly impact attendance and atmosphere across host venues.
The decision, revealed in an internal memo circulated on Wednesday, is part of a broader immigration vetting review and is expected to take effect from January 21. With the United States hosting the majority of matches alongside Mexico and Canada, the implications for global supporters are massive.
tougher visa rules raise global concerns
According to the memo, U.S. consular officers have been instructed to apply stricter scrutiny when assessing visa applications. Factors such as age, health condition, English-language proficiency, and the likelihood of requiring public assistance will now play a major role in determining eligibility.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott defended the move, stating:
“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people.”
While the policy is framed as an immigration control measure, critics argue it risks undermining the spirit of a global sporting event built on inclusivity, cultural exchange, and fan participation.
world cup matches could suffer reduced attendance
The impact could be felt most sharply inside U.S. stadiums during the tournament.
Scotland’s Group C has already become a focal point of concern. Three of their opponents — Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti — are reportedly among the countries affected by the visa suspension.
Key fixtures scheduled to take place in Foxborough against Haiti and Morocco, as well as a blockbuster clash with Brazil in Miami, could see significantly reduced attendance if fans from those nations are unable to travel.
For a World Cup expected to break records for viewership and matchday attendance, empty seats or muted atmospheres would be a damaging visual.
world cup-qualified countries reportedly affected
The list of affected nations includes several major footballing countries from Africa, the Middle East, and South America — regions that traditionally bring colour, passion, and vibrancy to World Cup tournaments.
Countries reportedly impacted include:
Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Algeria, Cape Verde, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Iran, Jordan, Senegal, Tunisia, Uruguay, and Uzbekistan.
With supporters from these nations facing potential visa barriers, serious questions are being asked about how accessible and representative the 2026 World Cup will truly be.
silence from fifa fuels uncertainty
As concerns grow, FIFA has yet to issue an official response addressing the visa situation or outlining potential solutions for affected fan groups.
With the tournament fast approaching and ticket sales, travel planning, and accommodation bookings already underway, uncertainty around fan access could damage confidence and global excitement.
For now, supporters across multiple continents are left waiting — and wondering whether the world’s biggest football festival will truly be open to the world.
At Sports Market International, we’ll continue to monitor developments around this unfolding situation and what it means for fans, federations, and the future of global football events.
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