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President Donald Trump announced fast-track FIFA Pass visas for 2026 World Cup ticket holders but entry to the United States is not guaranteed, cautioned Marco Rubio.
US President Donald Trump and FIFA boss Gianni Infantino (AP)
President Donald Trump on Monday revealed special fast-track visas for individuals with tickets to the 2026 World Cup, although his administration cautioned that this does not guarantee entry to the United States.
Despite concerns that Trump’s stringent border policies could affect fans, the United States has committed to ensuring a smooth experience for next year’s tournament.
“For those who intend to join us for the World Cup, I strongly encourage you to apply right away,” Trump stated while announcing the scheme in the Oval Office alongside Gianni Infantino, the president of FIFA.
Infantino, who has frequently appeared with Trump since the Republican’s return to the White House in January, described the “FIFA Pass” as a “very important announcement.”
“If you have a ticket for the World Cup, you can have a prioritised appointment to get your visa,” Infantino explained.
“We’ll have between five and 10 million people coming to America from all over the world to enjoy the World Cup, and with this FIFA pass, we can make sure that those who buy a ticket, that are legitimate football fans or soccer fans, they can come and attend the World Cup in the best conditions.”
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, however, issued a caution to those planning to come for the tournament.
“Your ticket is not a visa,” Rubio emphasised at the announcement. “It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. It guarantees you an expedited appointment, you’re still going to go through the same vetting.”
Rubio mentioned that ticket holders would receive an interview within six to eight weeks under the plan but urged people to act now.
“Don’t wait till the last minute,” he advised.
Trump has made the World Cup a key event of his second presidency and the 250th anniversary of US independence next year.
However, the massive sporting event has not been free from the political upheaval caused by Trump’s hardline stance on various issues.
Trump has suggested the possibility of relocating games from certain host cities amid a crackdown on what he describes as crime and migration in some Democrat-run cities.
The World Cup draw is scheduled to take place in Washington on December 5.
On the same day, FIFA will present a new peace prize, with widespread speculation that it could be awarded to Trump.
(With inputs from Agencies)
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin…Read More
Ritayan Basu, Senior Sub-Editor, Sports at News18.com. Has been covering domestic and and international football for nearly a decade. Has played and covered badminton. Ocassionally writes cricket content, havin… Read More
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