World Cup 2026: Host Cities Grapple with Immigration Impact and Planning

Miami Gardens, USA - The excitement is building as the 2026 Men’s World Cup approaches, set to kick off across North America from June 11 to July 19, 2026. With a record 48 nations participating and a grand total of 104 matches scheduled, fans and organizers are buzzing about the impending festivities. Yet, lurking behind this thrill is a concern that cannot be overlooked: the impact of immigration policies on the tournament.

Philadelphia’s host city executive for the World Cup, Meg Kane, recently expressed her apprehensions regarding the potential effects of immigration crackdowns under the previous administration during a gathering of U.S. host city leaders. She emphasized the necessity of planning amid the surrounding uncertainty posed by geopolitical issues, which could affect not just players and staff, but also fans wishing to attend the games. Kane stressed the importance of ensuring that all visitors feel welcomed, despite the external policies that could hinder this experience. As Kane pointed out, while athletes, coaches, and their families were exempt from the previous travel ban, there was no mention of fans, rendering them vulnerable to these regulations (KOB).

Immigration and Labor Challenges

The issues surrounding immigration are not standalone; they intertwine with broader labor and workforce challenges expected during the World Cup. As the event will span across 16 cities, including notable venues like Dallas, Los Angeles, and Mexico City, the need for a well-prepared cross-border workforce becomes crucial. Companies involved in sponsorships, vendor arrangements, or event organization must brace for legal considerations that are as complex as the tournament schedule itself (Morgan Lewis).

Employers must familiarize themselves with the labor laws in all three host countries to ensure compliance and fair treatment of workers. This includes understanding various visa requirements, as the U.S. has several visa types, including the O-1A for individuals with extraordinary abilities, while Canada and Mexico may offer different entry options. The logistics of managing a multijurisdictional workforce mean that companies should be tactful in securing appropriate visas and preparing for any last-minute surprises (JDSupra).

Security and Planning

Concerns about security have also been heightened in light of recent events. The 2024 Copa America final in Miami Gardens faced criticism when it started late due to security breaches. This incident has prompted local police and organizers to reevaluate their security measures ahead of the World Cup. To further mitigate risks, legislation is being proposed in the House of Representatives to allocate $625 million for the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to ensure thorough planning and security during the tournament (KOB).

While FIFA is managing this enormous event without a local organizing committee for the first time, collaboration among the 11 U.S. host committees remains essential. They are working together on various arrangements, including transportation and fan festival logistics. The significance of these preparations cannot be understated as they lay the groundwork for what is poised to be a landmark event in international sports.

As the countdown continues, stakeholders in the World Cup must tackle these multifaceted challenges proactively. From actionable contingency plans for unforeseen incidents to ensuring compliance with labor and immigration laws, the road to the tournament will require not just ambition, but also a solid strategy to navigate the complexities ahead. After all, ensuring that the world feels welcome in 2026 means taking these steps today.