Only ‘right people’ will enter US for FIFA WC: Trump
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Washington: US President Donald Trump has said his administration is taking stringent measures to ensure that only the “right people” enter the United States for the FIFA World Cup, while also seeking to streamline travel arrangements for visitors arriving for the tournament.
“We’re working on it very closely to make sure the right people come into our country,” Trump reportedly said.
Trump made the remarks ahead of the World Cup opener, as the United States prepares to host the majority of the tournament’s 104 matches under a joint hosting arrangement with Canada and Mexico.
The statement comes amid mounting international criticism of US immigration and border policies in the lead-up to the tournament. Human rights groups and figures within the football community have raised concerns over visa denials, travel restrictions and heightened security screening affecting players, officials and supporters.
The concerns have been amplified by warnings from UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk, who highlighted issues related to racial discrimination and immigration policies before the start of the 48-team tournament.
Several controversies have already cast a shadow over the World Cup preparations. Reports have emerged that some Iranian officials were denied US visas. In another case, Somali referee Omar Artan, regarded as one of Africa’s leading match officials, was reportedly refused entry to the United States over allegations of links to extremist organisations. US authorities have not publicly disclosed detailed evidence supporting the decision.
Public criticism has also followed the circulation of social media footage showing a Senegalese footballer undergoing an intensive security check at an airport.
Fans have also reported difficulties. Media reports suggest that supporters from countries including Morocco and Scotland had travel documents cancelled or rejected at the last moment, despite spending significant amounts on flights and accommodation.
With the World Cup set to begin, growing scrutiny of immigration enforcement, visa decisions and security procedures is emerging as a major issue alongside the sporting spectacle.