Donald Trump unveils fast-track visas for World Cup ticket holders
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
US President Donald Trump during a press conference in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington.
PHOTO: ALLISON ROBBERT/NYTIMES
Follow topic:
WASHINGTON – US President Donald Trump on Nov 17 unveiled special fast-track visas for people with tickets to the 2026 World Cup, but his administration warned it was no guarantee of entry to the country.
The United States has promised a seamless experience for the tournament despite concerns that his border crackdown could hurt fans.
“For those who intend to join us for the World Cup, I strongly encourage you to apply right away,” Mr Trump said as he announced the scheme in the Oval Office with Gianni Infantino, the boss of global football body Fifa.
Infantino, who has repeatedly appeared at Mr Trump’s side since the Republican’s return to the White House in January, said the so-called Fifa pass was a “very important announcement”.
“If you have a ticket for the World Cup, you can have a prioritised appointment to get your visa,” he said.
“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 warning to those hoping to come for the tournament.
“Your ticket is not a visa,” he said 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.”
He also said that ticket holders would get an interview within six to eight weeks under the plan but urged people to act now, adding: “Don’t wait till the last minute.”
Mr Trump has made the World Cup a centrepiece event of both his second presidency and the 250th anniversary of US independence in 2026.
But the giant sporting extravaganza has not escaped the political turmoil caused by his hardline stance on a host of issues.
The American leader has raised the possibility of moving games from certain host cities amid a crackdown on what he says is crime and illegal immigration in some Democratic-run cities.
The draw for the World Cup is due to take place in Washington on Dec 5.
Fifa will present a new peace prize on the same day, with widespread speculation that it could go to Mr Trump. AFP
