What's happened
Leading football figures, including Sepp Blatter, are calling for a boycott of the 2026 World Cup in the US amid concerns over security, civil rights, and political tensions. Critics cite recent incidents and US policies as reasons for the potential withdrawal of support and participation.
What's behind the headline?
The calls for a boycott reflect deep concerns about the US's political climate and human rights record, which threaten to overshadow the tournament's sporting significance. Blatter's endorsement signals a rare departure from FIFA's usual stance of political neutrality, highlighting the growing influence of geopolitical issues on global sports. The debate is likely to influence FIFA's reputation and could impact fan participation and international support. The US's policies on immigration and civil rights are now directly linked to the world's biggest sporting event, risking a significant reputational and logistical challenge for FIFA. The potential for a widespread boycott could reshape future World Cup hosting decisions, emphasizing the importance of political stability and human rights in international sports diplomacy.
What the papers say
The articles from Al Jazeera, AP News, France 24, The New Arab, and All Africa present a consistent narrative: prominent figures like Blatter and Goretzka are openly questioning the US's suitability as a host, citing security and civil rights concerns. While some sources emphasize the political tensions and recent incidents, others focus on the broader implications for FIFA and international football. The coverage highlights a rare convergence of sports and geopolitics, with influential voices urging fans and officials to reconsider participation. Contrasting opinions are minimal, but some officials and political leaders continue to defend the tournament, arguing that it will promote football and that concerns are politically motivated. Overall, the coverage underscores a growing controversy that could influence the tournament's future and FIFA's global standing.
How we got here
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, scheduled for June 11 to July 19. Concerns about US policies, immigration issues, and recent incidents involving immigration enforcement have led to calls for a boycott from various football officials and political figures. Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter and others have publicly questioned the suitability of the US as a host, citing security and human rights issues that have gained international attention.
Go deeper
Common question
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Why Are Ex-FIFA Leaders Calling for a Boycott of the 2026 US World Cup?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, is facing controversy. Former FIFA officials, including ex-president Sepp Blatter, are urging fans and countries to boycott the tournament. Their concerns stem from security issues, political tensions, and recent US policies. But what exactly is fueling this opposition, and should fans be worried about attending? Below, we explore the key questions surrounding this controversy.
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Stay updated with the latest global headlines shaping our world today. From international conflicts to major legal cases, these stories are capturing attention worldwide. Curious about what's happening now? Below are the key stories and answers to common questions about today's top news events.
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Why Are There Calls to Boycott the 2026 World Cup in the US?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, is facing growing controversy. Several football officials and political figures are calling for a boycott, citing concerns over security, civil rights, and political tensions in the US. This has sparked widespread debate about whether the tournament should proceed as planned and what implications it might have for international sports and diplomacy. Below, we explore the key reasons behind these calls and what they mean for fans and stakeholders alike.
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Mark Pieth is Professor of Criminal Law at the University of Basel, Switzerland and a prominent anti-corruption expert.
Pieth's career as a legal expert, defence lawyer, judge and compliance advisor includes several roles on the international stage, such
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Joseph "Sepp" Blatter is a retired Swiss football administrator who was the eighth President of the FIFA from 1998 to 2015. He is currently serving a six-year ban from participating in FIFA activities.
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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FIFA is a non-profit organization which describes itself as an international governing body of association football, fútsal, beach soccer, and efootball. It is the highest governing body of football.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup, marketed as FIFA World Cup 26, will be the 23rd FIFA World Cup, the quadrennial international men's soccer championship contested by the national teams of the member associations of FIFA.
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Leon Christoph Goretzka is a German professional footballer who plays as a midfielder for Bundesliga club Bayern Munich and the Germany national team.