More than 120 civil society organizations, including the ACLU and Amnesty International USA, have issued a travel advisory ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, urging fans, players, journalists, and other visitors to “exercise caution.” Reporter Without Borders (RSF) is among the signatories of this advisory, which may serve as a practical resource for media professionals covering the tournament.
Watch RSF video “Covering the 2026 World Cup? Prepare for more than football” for journalists
The advisory warns of risks associated with what groups describe as an escalating immigration crackdown under the Trump administration, including denial of entry, arrest or detention, expanded travel restrictions, social media screening, racial profiling, and heightened surveillance. It also highlights heightened risks for minority groups and notes existing travel bans affecting nationals from several participating countries.
The coalition calls on FIFA to secure concrete human rights guarantees from U.S. authorities, criticizing its leadership for close ties with the Trump administration. While FIFA states it remains committed to internationally recognized human rights, rights groups warn the tournament could become “a stage for repression” without stronger safeguards.
Journalists and other travelers are advised to take precautions, including securing devices, limiting access to sensitive data, and maintaining contact with trusted networks.
“Every four years, billions of people turn their attention to the World Cup and its host countries. Journalists are essential to telling that story both on and off the field. Unfortunately, in the US, journalists are facing growing barriers, from visa uncertainty to safety concerns. FIFA and the host governments must guarantee the freedom and safety of journalists before, during, and after the 2026 World Cup.” Clayton Weimers, Executive Director, RSF North America
Check our resource websites for more information here, and contact RSF at worldcup@rsf.org if you would like to report a violation against the press or need help.
More resources:
- FIFA violation reporting portal.
-
- The ACLU travel advisory.
- Freedom of Press Foundation digital security advisory.
- National Lawyers Guild’s “Know Your Risks Booklet.”
To go further : RSF launches protective equipment grant program as journalists face mounting risks in the U.S.A.