The DHS shutdown and U.S. immigration policies could hinder the World Cup

The upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, faces significant challenges due to the ongoing partial shutdown of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and restrictive U.S. immigration policies. Despite the event's global excitement and the U.S. hosting key matches in cities like Los Angeles and Seattle, concerns are mounting over whether players and fans from certain countries—such as Haiti and Iran—will be allowed to enter the country. A travel ban and a $15,000 bond requirement for citizens from some nations could prevent fans from attending, undermining the spirit of international unity the World Cup represents. Juliet Kayyem, a former DHS official, highlights that while FIFA remains officially optimistic, the lack of cross-border cooperation and growing anti-immigrant sentiment are creating a hostile environment for international visitors. She warns that the U.S. is failing to project a welcoming image, which could deter fans and damage the country’s global reputation. The shutdown also threatens long-term preparedness for future crises, as DHS staff face pay delays and morale issues, weakening national security infrastructure. Despite these obstacles, Kayyem remains cautiously optimistic that many issues will be resolved before the tournament. However, the current political climate and inconsistent enforcement of immigration rules are creating uncertainty. The episode underscores a broader tension: the U.S. is attempting to host a unifying global event while simultaneously enacting policies that signal exclusion. This contradiction risks turning the World Cup into a symbol of division rather than celebration. The long-term impact of the DHS shutdown extends beyond the World Cup, threatening the nation’s ability to respond to future emergencies, from hurricanes to terrorism. The episode serves as a timely reminder that national image, preparedness, and policy coherence are critical when hosting international events.