FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off on June 11, hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States. But not everyone who wants to attend a U.S. match will be able to enter the country. Stricter U.S. immigration admissions and enforcement policies are limiting access for fans from dozens of countries, creating a collision between the world's most-watched sporting event and immigration policymaking. Visa restrictions, travel bans, and fears of possible immigration enforcement outside stadiums in U.S. host cities are reshaping who can participate, with possible implications for the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles. |
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In this episode of our World of Migration podcast, host Ariel G. Ruiz Soto speaks with sports journalist Albert Samaha about the intersection of sports and immigration—exploring how enforcement priorities are affecting athletes and fans, and what the World Cup moment says to some about the place of the United States on the global stage. |
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🎧 Tune in for this timely conversation. You can find the episode on our website or anywhere you get your podcasts. Subscribe to World of Migration and please leave us a review. |
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