[Column] John Olivieira: World Cup 26: A choice between compromise and exit

The World Cup matters deeply to millions of us. FIFA may hold the commercial and organisational IP, but emotionally the tournament belongs to all of us. That is why the human rights context of World Cup 2026 in the United States cannot be brushed aside.

Mega-events are never neutral. They don't just reflect power — they help normalise it. If we respond by simply saying "we will participate," we are also choosing a side: the side of normalisation.

This is where the debate between boycott and engagement needs to mature. Walking away is not an easy option. But nor is unconditional participation. Engagement must be tied to pressure: public, enforceable requirements addressed to FIFA and host authorities. 

Why now? Because access and safety are becoming immediate rather than theoretical. The U.S. State Department has announced a temporary pause affecting immigrant visa issuance for nationals of 75 countries from 21 January 2026. This concerns immigrant visas, not routine short-stay travel categories.

But it signals a tightening climate and increases uncertainty for fans and journalists planning travel. And even where exemptions are discussed for major sporting events, they are narrow: a ticket, accreditation, or invitation is not a guarantee of a visa or entry. FIFA and hosts must publish clear, enforceable access pathways — and remedies when people are refused.

Beyond visas, the wider enforcement and screening climate matters. Many supporters — especially from marginalised backgrounds — are weighing the risk of being detained, even by mistake, and the prospect of heavy policing around public events. 

As chair of Fare Network Stichting Netherlands, affiliated with the wider Fare Network, I draw on our experience monitoring discrimination and racism in and around football across Europe — including UEFA Champions League fixtures and international games — and working with FIFA on monitoring international fixtures.

For me, three non-negotiables must be secured for World Cup 2026:

Guaranteed access for supporters and media from all qualified nations, with safeguards on visas, border procedures, and protection against arbitrary refusals.

Independent human rights monitoring with transparent public reporting and a credible escalation mechanism when commitments are breached.

A binding anti-discrimination and safety protocol across stadiums and fan zones, including reporting channels, victim protection, and meaningful sanctions.

If these conditions are not secured, it is reasonable to withdraw official delegations, campaigns, and hospitality. Matches may still be played, but the public relations shield should not remain intact.

FIFA should publish its access and safeguarding guarantees now — or accept that official engagement will be scaled back.

John Olivieira is chairman of the Fare Network Foundation, affiliated with the broader FARE Network, and publisher of OneWorld in Amsterdam. He writes in a personal capacity.