By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Former FIFA President Sepp Blatter has joined a growing chorus of international figures advocating for a fan boycott of the 2026 World Cup in the United States, citing concerns over the policies of the Trump administration. These concerns include travel bans, aggressive immigration enforcement tactics, and other actions deemed to be against human rights. Blatter’s call for a boycott mirrors those of other football officials and political leaders across the globe. These calls have been made in both Europe and Africa with the UK and South Africa expressing interest in boycotts.
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Sepp Blatter, the former head of FIFA, is stirring the pot again, and this time it’s with a suggestion that fans might want to reconsider traveling to the US for the World Cup. It’s a bold statement, considering his own history and the current political climate. The core concern seems to center around the potential for human rights abuses and the overall unwelcoming experience that international travelers might encounter.
The fear is that fans could face unnecessary scrutiny and even mistreatment from U.S. authorities, particularly at airports. The stories circulating paint a picture of intrusive questioning, with officials potentially grilling individuals about their finances, their intentions, and even their language skills. These experiences, according to some, could be particularly harsh for those who don’t fit the “acceptable” profile. There’s a real worry that people could be detained without due process, highlighting a lack of trust in the system.
One of the most concerning aspects of this discussion is the potential impact on international fans. The current climate in the U.S. is not universally seen as welcoming, leading some to question whether the experience will be worth the risk. Some commenters have specifically highlighted the concerns of non-white travelers, noting that they might be subject to greater levels of harassment and suspicion. This could particularly affect fans from countries with different cultural backgrounds.
The concerns aren’t just about airport experiences, though. Some believe that the overall atmosphere in the US under certain political leadership is one of hostility towards foreigners. This includes the fear of being targeted by law enforcement without cause, and the general sense that civil liberties are under threat. It’s a rather serious charge when one considers the potential ramifications.
Blatter himself was previously arrested on corruption charges, by the FBI. Perhaps the current political situation and this history are not lost on him as he makes this suggestion. Others suspect a more cynical motive, suggesting that Blatter might be trying to leverage the situation for personal gain. However, irrespective of the motivation, the message being delivered is clear: traveling to the U.S. for the World Cup carries potential risks.
The reactions within the international football community are bound to be complex. For some, the opportunity to see their team compete in the World Cup will outweigh any reservations. Others might be less willing to compromise on their principles, and the possibility of boycotts and protests has been raised. This is particularly relevant for fans from nations that have expressed strong opinions on the current U.S. political landscape.
This isn’t just about avoiding a negative experience; it’s about making a statement. A boycott, or even a decrease in attendance, could send a powerful message about human rights and the values the sport represents. The question remains, however, whether fans will prioritize their love of the game above these other considerations. Some countries may also discuss whether their national teams should boycott the World Cup.
The potential for empty seats is a major concern for the U.S. hosts. FIFA wants to show successful events, as they’ve always done. The image will be crucial. They’ve previously held the World Cup in locations with questionable human rights records, so the U.S. should also be ready to face such criticism. They may also rely on tactics such as giving tickets to locals in order to have the stadium full.
The debate also raises broader questions about the role of sport in politics. Is it acceptable to ignore human rights abuses in order to enjoy a sporting event? Does the excitement of the World Cup override concerns about personal safety and political ideology? These are difficult questions, and there are no easy answers. The decision of whether or not to travel to the U.S. for the World Cup will ultimately be a personal one, but it’s clear that it won’t be made without a lot of thought.