World Cup 2026: US Border Crackdowns Tarnish Global Event

The 2026 World Cup, set to be the largest ever with 48 teams and 104 matches across the US, Canada, and Mexico, faces significant challenges due to US immigration policies under Donald Trump. Critics highlight xenophobia and human rights abuses, leading to travel warnings and reduced tourist bookings. Incidents like the denial of entry to a Somali referee and heightened scrutiny of teams from Senegal and Uzbekistan have raised concerns. FIFA's promise of inclusivity is overshadowed by fears of exclusion and discrimination, potentially tarnishing the tournament's reputation.