Amnesty warns of human rights risks ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be held in the US, Canada, and Mexico.

HARARE – This year’s 2026 FIFA World Cup is being promoted as a landmark celebration of global football, but a new report by Amnesty International has raised concerns over potential human rights risks facing fans. The tournament, jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to attract millions of supporters from around the world. However, Amnesty says the experience on the ground may fall short of the inclusive and welcoming environment promised by organisers.

In its report, Amnesty highlights growing risks related to freedom of expression, policing practices, and surveillance measures, particularly in the United States, which will host the majority of matches. The organisation points to concerns over aggressive immigration enforcement, mass detentions, and the potential for increased monitoring of fans during the tournament.

“Security measures must not come at the expense of fundamental rights,” Amnesty said, warning that excessive policing could undermine civil liberties.

The report also raises concerns about barriers facing international fans, including strict visa requirements and, in some cases, financial guarantees or bond payments for travellers from certain countries. Analysts say such restrictions could limit access for supporters from the Global South, potentially affecting the tournament’s diversity and inclusivity.

In Mexico, Amnesty flagged the large-scale deployment of security forces, warning that it could affect how protests or public gatherings are managed during the tournament. In Canada, the organisation said some social services have reportedly been disrupted or redirected to support World Cup logistics, raising questions about the broader social impact of hosting the event.

Authorities across the three host nations maintain that security remains the top priority, given the scale and global profile of the tournament. Organisers say coordinated planning is underway to ensure fan safety, smooth travel, and effective crowd management across all venues.

Human rights experts say the challenge for host countries will be balancing security needs with the protection of civil liberties.

“Mega sporting events often come with heightened security, but transparency and accountability are critical,” said a Harare-based international relations analyst.

With the countdown to kick-off underway, the report adds pressure on organisers to address concerns and ensure the tournament delivers both a safe and inclusive experience for fans.

As preparations intensify, the spotlight is now not only on football but also on how host nations uphold rights during one of the world’s biggest sporting events.

Amnesty World Cup 2026 report