Overview
- Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass asked the White House to publicly assure visitors they will be welcomed and not face immigration problems as the city prepares to host eight matches.
- Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter endorsed Swiss lawyer Mark Pieth’s call for fans to avoid U.S.-hosted games, amplifying boycott talk across parts of Europe.
- Petitions and officials in Europe pressed the issue — including a Dutch campaign exceeding 140,000 signatures and statements from German football figures — though no national federation has committed to withdraw.
- Recent U.S. policy moves expanded entry bans affecting supporters from Senegal and Ivory Coast, with earlier restrictions on Iran and Haiti, intensifying access concerns.
- FIFA officials say they are in constant dialogue with the U.S. administration as legal analysts warn of visa, ticketing and consumer risks if fans cannot enter after purchasing.