NAACP Joins Growing Coalition of Over 120 Organizations to Issue Travel Advisory for 2026 FIFA World Cup

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
April 23, 2026
Contact: Chyna Fields, cfields@naacpnet.org

WASHINGTON – Today, the NAACP has officially signed onto a comprehensive travel advisory concerning the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, along with a robust coalition of over 120 groups spanning all 11 U.S. host cities. The coalition is warning that fans, players, journalists, and other visitors traveling for the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup could be at risk of serious rights violations as the Trump administration doubles down on its oppressive immigration and anti-human rights agenda.

The 2026 World Cup, which will be held between June 11 and July 19, could bring as many as 10 million visitors to 11 U.S. cities this summer, making it the largest sporting event in history. In February 2026 – just days after U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement's (ICE) agents shot and killed Nicole Good in Minneapolis – ICE said agents would play a "key part" in the security at this summer's tournament, raising concerns of potential ICE violence and increased enforcement activity in host cities.

In their advisory, the groups state that, in the absence of meaningful action from FIFA, host cities, or the Trump administration, people traveling to the United States and domestically could be at risk of:

• Arbitrary denial of entry and risk of arrest, detention and/or deportation
• Expanded restrictions and limitation on travel and entry to the U.S.
• Invasive social media screening and searches of electronic devices
• Violent and unconstitutional immigration enforcement, including racial profiling
• Suppression of speech and protest, and increased surveillance
• Cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment – and even death – while in ICE detention or custody

The advisory also encourages travelers, including thousands of journalists expected to cover the games, to take steps to protect themselves, such as securing electronic devices by removing facial recognition capabilities when traveling; alerting family, friends or trusted colleagues of plans to travel to and within the U.S.; and consulting other "Know Your Rights" resources.

To view the full advisory, click here.

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About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF – was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.