FIFA has not officially moved any 2026 World Cup games from the United States 🇺🇸 to Canada 🇨🇦, despite growing rumors and concerns about President Trump’s immigration policies. As of July 29, 2025, the official FIFA website still lists 11 U.S. cities as hosts, with no confirmed changes to the match schedule. The claim that FIFA is shifting games north because of U.S. immigration rules has spread widely online, but there is no confirmation from FIFA or the U.S. government.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest in history, with 48 teams and 104 matches across the United States 🇺🇸, Canada 🇨🇦, and Mexico. The United States 🇺🇸 is scheduled to host most of the games, making it a central player in the tournament. However, since President Trump returned to office in January 2025, his administration has put in place strict immigration policies. These include travel bans on 12 countries, extra restrictions on travelers from seven more, and possible bans on up to 36 additional countries. The government has also tightened visa rules for fans, journalists, support staff, and even teams from countries like Iran.
These policies have sparked criticism from fans, human rights groups, and the media. Many argue that the new rules go against FIFA’s core values of inclusion and non-discrimination. Social media rumors began in June 2025, suggesting that FIFA was considering moving some games to Canada 🇨🇦, which is seen as more open and welcoming. However, these rumors remain unconfirmed, and the official match schedule has not changed.
Current Status and Official Statements
- FIFA has not made any public statement about moving games from the United States 🇺🇸 to Canada 🇨🇦. The official FIFA World Cup 2026 website continues to show the original host cities.
- U.S. Government officials have not commented on the rumors or addressed concerns about how immigration policies might affect the tournament.
- Canadian Heritage officials have said that Canada 🇨🇦 could welcome up to a million international visitors if more games are moved north, showing their readiness to host.
- Experts like Victor Matheson, a sports economics professor, warn that “significant immigration problems” could make it hard for fans and players to cross U.S. borders. Andrew Zimbalist, another sports economist, points out that President Trump’s unpredictability and strict visa rules could keep fans away from U.S. matches, but notes that the biggest games are still set for the United States 🇺🇸.
Impact of U.S. Immigration Policies
The new U.S. immigration rules could have several effects on the FIFA World Cup:
- Visa and travel restrictions may stop fans, journalists, and support staff from dozens of countries from entering the United States 🇺🇸. This could lead to empty seats in stadiums and a less lively atmosphere.
- Athlete and staff exemptions exist, but the rules are not always clear, and the administration’s unpredictability adds to the uncertainty.
- Canada 🇨🇦 is seen as a safer bet for international visitors, with fewer immigration hurdles and a reputation for being politically neutral and well-organized.
- FIFA faces pressure to stick to its promises of inclusion and fairness, which could push the organization to consider moving some games if the situation does not improve.
Rumors and Media Reports
Rumors about FIFA moving games have been fueled by:
- Social media speculation that began in June 2025, with claims that FIFA was planning to shift matches to Canada 🇨🇦.
- Media reports suggesting that FIFA is “considering” or “weighing” the idea, but none of these reports have been confirmed by official sources.
- Ongoing concerns from fans and advocacy groups, who support moving games as a way to protest U.S. immigration policies.
Stakeholder Perspectives
- Fans and advocacy groups: Many support moving games to Canada 🇨🇦, saying it would send a strong message against restrictive immigration policies.
- U.S. organizers: Worry about the financial and reputational damage if games are moved out of the United States 🇺🇸.
- Canadian officials: Ready to host more matches and welcome additional visitors, seeing it as a chance to boost tourism and showcase Canada 🇨🇦 on the world stage.
Procedures and Timeline
- No official process for moving games has been announced. Any decision would need close work between FIFA, national governments, and local organizers.
- A final decision—if any—would likely come in the next few months, as the tournament is set to start on June 11, 2026.
Practical Guidance for Visitors
If you plan to attend the FIFA World Cup in the United States 🇺🇸, it’s important to:
- Check visa requirements early, especially if you are from a country affected by travel bans or extra restrictions. The U.S. Department of State provides up-to-date information on visa policies and entry rules.
- Monitor official FIFA updates for any changes to match locations or schedules.
- Consider Canada 🇨🇦 as an alternative if you face difficulties entering the United States 🇺🇸, as Canada 🇨🇦 is expected to remain open and accessible for international visitors.
Background and Broader Context
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is historic not only for its size but also for its shared hosting across three countries. The United States 🇺🇸, with 11 host cities, is central to the event. However, President Trump’s immigration policies have created new challenges. Travel bans, stricter visa rules, and mass deportations have made it harder for many people to visit the United States 🇺🇸. This has led to fears that the tournament may not be as open or welcoming as past World Cups.
Canada 🇨🇦, by contrast, has fewer immigration barriers and a strong record of hosting international events. Many see it as a reliable backup if FIFA decides that the United States 🇺🇸 cannot guarantee access for all fans, teams, and staff.
Future Outlook
As of now, the situation remains uncertain. No official changes have been made, but the pressure on FIFA to act is growing. If U.S. immigration policies stay strict or become even tougher, FIFA may have to move some matches to Canada 🇨🇦 to keep the tournament open to everyone and uphold its values.
For the latest and most accurate information, always check the FIFA World Cup 2026 official website and follow updates from FIFA and government agencies. As reported by VisaVerge.com, staying informed and preparing early is the best way to avoid problems and enjoy the World Cup, wherever the games are played.
In summary, while rumors about FIFA moving World Cup games from the United States 🇺🇸 to Canada 🇨🇦 are widespread, there is no official confirmation. The situation could change, so fans, teams, and organizers should keep a close eye on official announcements and be ready to adjust their plans if needed.
Learn Today
FIFA → International governing body responsible for the organization of the World Cup and global soccer events.
Travel Ban → Governmental restriction prohibiting entry from specific countries for security or policy reasons.
Visa Restrictions → Rules limiting or controlling foreign visitors’ entry through visa issuance conditions or refusals.
Host Cities → Designated cities selected to hold matches during an international tournament like the World Cup.
Exemptions → Special permissions allowing certain individuals to bypass usual travel or visa restrictions.
This Article in a Nutshell
Despite rumors, FIFA confirms no relocation of 2026 World Cup games from US to Canada. US immigration policies tighten, raising fan entry concerns. Canada offers a welcoming alternative. Fans should verify visa requirements and official updates to avoid disruptions and enjoy the historic multi-nation tournament starting June 11, 2026.
— By VisaVerge.com
