Written by B. Keith Crear III, SFL Staff | 2025 CONCACAF Gold Cup Group B match between El Salvador and Canada at Shell Energy Stadium on June 24, 2025 in Houston, Texas. | Oscar Herrera, SportsFusion Live
With the Concacaf Gold Cup recently wrapping up in the US, there have been recent rumors that FIFA may move some 2026 World Cup matches out of the United States. While the tournament is still officially scheduled to be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, concerns over U.S. immigration policies have led to speculation that FIFA is considering relocating some games to Canada.
The Rationale Behind the Rumors
The primary reason for the rumors centers on U.S. immigration policies. Recent visa regulations have reportedly created significant obstacles for international delegations, including fans, journalists, and support staff. With up to 43 countries currently facing travel restrictions to the U.S., there is a concern that fans from qualified nations may be barred from attending matches. This would create a situation where players are competing in stadiums with a noticeable lack of their own supporters.
Such restrictions run counter to FIFA's stated principles of "access and non-discrimination," as well as its commitment to upholding human rights and promoting inclusion. FIFA is now faced with the challenge of balancing the United States' strong financial backing for the tournament with its own core values. Canada has been cited as a potential alternative, offering a more stable political climate and more accommodating immigration policies.
The Current Status of the 2026 World Cup
As of now, the 2026 World Cup is still set to be co-hosted by the three North American nations. The tournament will be the first to feature 48 teams, with a total of 104 matches played across 16 cities. The United States is scheduled to host the majority of the games, including all matches from the quarterfinals onward, with the final to be held in New York/New Jersey. Mexico will host 10 games and Canada will also host 10 games.
Despite the rumors, there has been no official announcement from FIFA regarding any change in the host country arrangement. The ongoing discussions and concerns highlight the complex intersection of global sports, geopolitics, and human rights.
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