President Donald Trump on Monday announced a special fast-track visa programme for holders of tickets to the 2026 World Cup, though his administration cautioned that the initiative does not guarantee entry into the United States.
Washington has pledged a seamless experience for next year’s tournament amid concerns that Trump’s renewed border restrictions could affect travelling fans.
“For those who intend to join us for the World Cup, I strongly encourage you to apply right away,” Trump said while unveiling the scheme at the Oval Office alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
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Infantino—who has made several appearances with Trump since the Republican returned to the White House in January—described the “FIFA Pass” as “a very important announcement.”
“If you have a ticket for the World Cup, you can have a prioritized appointment to get your visa,” Infantino said.
“We’ll have between five and 10 million people coming to America from from all over the world to enjoy the World Cup, and with this FIFA pass, we can make sure that those who buy a ticket, that are legitimate football fans or soccer fans, they can come and attend the World Cup in the best conditions.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio however issued a warning to those hoping to come for the tournament.
“Your ticket is not a visa,” Rubio said at the announcement. “It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. It guarantees you an expedited appointment, you’re still going to go through the same vetting.”
Rubio said ticket holders would get an interview within six to eight weeks under the plan but urged people to act now.
“Don’t wait till the last minute,” he said.
Trump has made the World Cup a centerpiece event of both his second presidency and the 250th anniversary of US independence next year.
But the giant sporting extravaganza has not escaped the political turmoil caused by Trump’s hardline stance on a host of issues.
Trump has raised the possibility of moving games from certain host cities amid a crackdown on what he says is crime and migration in some Democratic-run cities.
The draw for the World Cup is due to take place in Washington on December 5.
FIFA will present a new peace prize on the same day, with widespread speculation that it it could go to Trump.
