With Days to the World Cup Draw, White House Warns Global Fans Amid Rising Fears Over Raids and Strict Visa Controls

The United States has raised concerns just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup draw. The White House issued a warning to international fans planning to travel for the tournament. Anxiety is growing, especially among countries affected by President Donald Trump’s strict immigration policies.

Since returning to office earlier this year, Trump has tightened travel rules. He banned citizens from 12 countries and partially restricted seven more. Officials now fear the list could grow to 30 after a recent shooting involving National Guard members near the White House. Fans from affected nations are unsure about their travel plans. Haiti and Iran both qualified for the World Cup. Their players will get special entry exemptions, but supporters face uncertainty.

The situation worsened when Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House Task Force on the World Cup, refused to rule out immigration raids during the tournament. He said Trump would use Immigration and Customs Enforcement if it meant keeping Americans safe. Fans worried that restrictions might affect their attendance. Ticket holders will get priority visa interviews, but every application will be strictly vetted. Giuliani stressed that national security comes first. Only fans posing no threat will be allowed in.

Meanwhile, FIFA is preparing for its largest tournament ever. Forty-two teams have qualified, including Argentina, Brazil, Spain, and France. Six more will join after the March playoff round. Iran recently threatened to boycott the draw after some officials were denied visas. Their fourth consecutive World Cup appearance now hangs in doubt.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino promised the tournament would stay open to all. Yet U.S. immigration policies have added tension. As the draw approaches, fans and teams face uncertainty. The world now watches closely as politics and football collide.