FIFA is reportedly considering a shift in plans for the 2026 World Cup, with some matches possibly being moved from the United States to Canada. The reason? A growing storm over America’s strict immigration policies that many say could shut out players, fans, and staff from dozens of countries.

The 2026 tournament, which is being co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, was originally designed to be a celebration of global football on North American soil. But recent developments in U.S. immigration rules have sparked serious concerns. 

According to reports, current travel bans and tightened visa rules could prevent delegations from as many as 43 countries including qualified teams like Iran from entering the U.S. at all.

This raises a troubling scenario: a global tournament with half-empty stadiums because fans and even media personnel can’t secure entry into the host country. 

For FIFA, which has long championed values like inclusion, equal access, and global unity through sport, the situation has become increasingly hard to ignore.

Critics argue that continuing to host key matches in the U.S. under such conditions contradicts FIFA’s own commitments to human rights and non-discrimination. Fans and advocacy groups are putting pressure on the football body to stand by its words and ensure the tournament is open to all, not just those from select countries.

Canada, meanwhile, is being viewed as a more welcoming alternative. Known for its relatively open immigration policies and political neutrality, the country could offer a more practical and inclusive venue for matches affected by U.S. restrictions. 

Its strong infrastructure and history of hosting international sporting events also work in its favor.

While the U.S. remains a financially strong host with powerful commercial backing, FIFA now finds itself at a crossroads. The challenge ahead is not just about logistics or money, it’s about staying true to its global mission.

A final decision on whether to relocate matches is still pending, but insiders say any move will reflect FIFA’s need to balance its commercial interests with its stated values of fairness, diversity, and accessibility.