FIFA Grilled On African Inclusion For U.S. World Cup/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ FIFA President Gianni Infantino was pressed by African journalists over safety and inclusion for African fans traveling to the U.S. for the 2026 World Cup. Concerns focus on current U.S. political tensions and visa accessibility. Infantino and CAF President Patrice Motsepe offered reassurances, though doubts remain.
African Fans & 2026 World Cup Quick Looks
- Infantino questioned in Kenya over African fan safety in U.S.
- Concerns raised about racism, discrimination, and U.S. travel policies.
- Reporters cited Trump’s role and controversial meetings with African leaders.
- FIFA VP Patrice Motsepe emphasized ongoing work with U.S. authorities.
- 9+ African teams expected in the 2026 tournament.
- World Cup ticket sales open Sept. 10; visa uncertainty remains.
- FIFA insists fans from 164 nations entered U.S. this year.
- Tournament spans U.S., Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19, 2026.
Deep Look
Infantino Pressed on African Fan Safety and Welcome at 2026 World Cup in U.S.
NAIROBI, Kenya — FIFA President Gianni Infantino faced a wave of pointed questions from African journalists Saturday over whether fans from the continent will be treated with respect, dignity, and security during the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.
At a press conference in Nairobi, members of the African media asked Infantino to address growing concerns about how African nationals — particularly fans, not just players and officials — will be received in the U.S. amid rising global tensions and domestic American political strife.
“We are going to play it in a country where some of us do not feel welcome,” said a South African reporter, voicing fears shared by many. The journalist noted that African fans are “jittery” about traveling to the U.S., where recent political discourse has intensified fears of exclusion and discrimination.
Trump, Politics, and Perceptions
Adding fuel to the concerns was Infantino’s recent high-profile meeting with President Donald Trump, who now prominently displays a gold World Cup trophy in the Oval Office. Trump, who has returned to power during a controversial second term, has stirred tensions across the global south with past comments and travel policies.
The South African reporter referenced President Trump’s May meeting with South African President Cyril Ramaphosa, in which Trump repeated discredited claims of violence against white farmers in South Africa — a topic that strained diplomatic relations.
Sitting beside Infantino at the event was Patrice Motsepe, FIFA Vice President and head of the Confederation of African Football (CAF) — and Ramaphosa’s brother-in-law. The optics and timing of these connections only heightened questions about how committed FIFA is to ensuring an inclusive World Cup experience.
Visa Access & Inclusion Concerns
A key issue raised during the press conference was the ongoing concern over visa accessibility. While FIFA has secured exemptions for teams and officials under Trump’s new travel guidelines, regular fans — especially from African and Muslim-majority nations — may face significant hurdles.
The U.S. has long maintained travel bans and watch lists affecting dozens of countries. With ticket sales opening on September 10, time is ticking for fans to determine whether their attendance is even feasible.
“The onus is on you,” the South African reporter told Infantino and Motsepe. “To make sure Africa and the rest of the world are not made to feel like second-class citizens.”
Infantino attempted to reassure the crowd, saying, “Everyone will be welcome in North America next year for the World Cup.” He also noted that fans from 164 countries entered the U.S. during the Club World Cup this summer, held across 11 cities.
Still, the comparison falls short for many. Attending a Club World Cup is not logistically or politically comparable to the massive influx of fans expected for the expanded 48-team World Cup.
African Nations Set to Compete
At least nine African nations are expected to qualify, with Egypt, Morocco, and South Africa currently leading their respective groups. A 10th team could still qualify through intercontinental playoffs.
The official draw for the tournament is set for December 5 in Washington, D.C., at the Kennedy Center — an event announced by Trump and Infantino together in the Oval Office.
The tournament itself will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 11 U.S. cities, along with 3 cities in Mexico and 2 in Canada. Major games, including the U.S. team’s opener, are scheduled for SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles, one of eight games planned there.
Motsepe: Assurances in Place
CAF President Motsepe sought to ease tensions, stating that behind-the-scenes coordination with U.S. authorities is ongoing.
“We are confident that we will fulfill whatever requirements they may have,” said Motsepe, adding that there will be “sufficient access” for African fans.
Still, there is a general lack of transparency about exactly how these guarantees will be enforced — or whether unforeseen political developments could create roadblocks.
Infantino Urges Unity
Closing the press conference, Infantino emphasized FIFA’s goal of unity and diversity through sport.
“The world needs occasions of unity,” he said, describing the 2026 World Cup as “the greatest celebration of football ever.” He encouraged African fans to “be positive,” despite underlying concerns.
However, for many watching the situation unfold, words of reassurance are no substitute for concrete guarantees. As the tournament nears, African fans and global observers will be watching closely — not just for goals on the pitch, but for signs of genuine inclusion and safety off it.
