Rights groups issue Florida travel alert ahead of World Cup, citing detention risks
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The 2026 FIFA World Cup is co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19.
PHOTO: REUTERS
FLORIDA – A coalition of civil and human rights organisations on Feb 6 issued a statewide travel alert for Florida ahead of football’s 2026 World Cup.
They warned international visitors that stepped-up immigration enforcement
The groups said they were urging tourists and visiting fans to “exercise extreme caution”, carry identification at all times and register travel plans with their consulates before arriving.
They also advised travellers to reconsider visiting the state until what they described as a lack of accountability and transparency in enforcement practices is addressed.
“Florida is no longer a safe destination for international tourists,” Florida Immigrant Coalition executive director Tessa Petit said in a statement, alleging that visitors and residents could be detained without cause and targeted based on appearance, language or accent.
Florida tourism officials blasted the travel alert.
“These ‘advisories’ are ridiculous and, unfortunately, politically-motivated stunts that needlessly seek to harm our state and industry,” said Mr Bryan Griffin, president and chief executive of tourism group Visit Florida.
“Lawful visitors to our state have no reason to be concerned. Florida welcomes hundreds of thousands of travellers daily and is looking forward to being a hub for World Cup celebrations for residents and travellers alike,” he said.
“Visitors can expect an enjoyable, safe, and easy travel experience in Florida.”
The coalition pointed to reports by journalists and civil rights groups describing cases in which US citizens, lawful permanent residents and tourists were detained after routine encounters with law enforcement, including traffic stops.
The organisations also cited accounts of people being held for extended periods with limited access to lawyers or consular assistance. Reuters could not independently verify the specific incidents described in the advisory.
Florida has expanded cooperation between local law enforcement agencies and federal immigration authorities to allow trained local officers to perform certain immigration-enforcement functions, the coalition said.
Civil liberties advocates have argued that such arrangements can lead to over-policing of immigrant communities, while supporters say the programmes enhance public safety.
The travel alert comes as the United States prepares to co-host the 2026 World Cup from June 11 to July 19. The event is expected to draw hundreds of thousands of international visitors across multiple host cities. Miami will host seven matches.
The US is co-hosting the expanded 48-team global tournament with neighbours Canada and Mexico. REUTERS
