Members of President Donald Trump’s Cabinet have issued a warning to foreign visitors planning to attend the 2026 world cup.
While the U.S. government says it welcomes fans from around the world to experience the incredible venues and vibrant American culture, officials are making it clear that all visitors must leave the country once their authorized stay ends.
In a video posted on the social media platform X (formerly
Twitter), U.S. Vice President JD Vance stated that any visitors who overstay their visas will face action from the appropriate authorities.
“I know we will have visitors from close to 100 countries.
We want them to come, we want them to celebrate, we want them to watch the games. But when the time is up, they will have to go home — otherwise, they’ll have to talk to the Secretary,” the Vice President said.
U.S. Secretary of Transportation also emphasized the importance of respecting visa rules, while encouraging visitors to explore more of the country during their stay:
“We’re going to encourage everyone to go on a road trip to celebrate our great country. So if you’re coming to see some soccer, go on a road trip and see America. Don’t overstay your visa. Don’t stay too long. But when you come, actually see this great country that we’re going to celebrate over the course of the next year.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, the premier international men’s football (soccer) tournament, will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, with matches held in 16 cities across the three countries. It marks the first time three nations have jointly hosted a World Cup, and only the second time multiple countries have done so, the first being Japan and South Korea in 2002.
The 2026 tournament will also feature a historic expansion to 48 teams, up from the previous 32, making it the largest World Cup in history.
