Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter has stepped into the growing debate over the World Cup in the United States. He now supports calls urging fans to stay away, pointing to political tensions and strict entry rules that worry many in the soccer world.
Blatter Speaks Out
On Monday, Blatter shared his view on X. He agreed with Swiss lawyer Mark Pieth, who recently questioned whether the United States can truly welcome fans from around the world. Blatter said Pieth raised fair concerns and that this World Cup deserves closer scrutiny.
Blatter led FIFA from 1998 to 2015. Even though corruption scandals forced him to resign, his voice still carries weight in global football discussions.
A Warning to Traveling Fans
Mark Pieth, who once oversaw FIFA reform efforts, gave a blunt message in an interview with the Swiss newspaper Der Bund. He advised fans not to travel to the United States for the tournament.
Pieth warned that visitors could face harsh treatment at the border. In his view, officials might deny entry or send fans home if they cause any trouble. He suggested watching matches on television instead of taking the risk.
Blatter later echoed that message and said fans have every right to feel uneasy.
Concerns Keep Growing Worldwide
The United States will co host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. Even so, unease continues to spread across the international soccer community.
Many critics blame President Donald Trump’s policies. They point to aggressive immigration enforcement, protests linked to migrant crackdowns in US cities, and strong foreign policy moves as reasons fans may not feel welcome.
European Officials Join the Debate
Oke Göttlich, a vice president of the German soccer federation, recently said officials should seriously discuss a boycott. He shared his concerns in an interview with a Hamburg newspaper, adding to the pressure on FIFA and host nations.
European leaders worry that fans could face unpredictable treatment when entering the United States, especially those from countries under closer scrutiny.
Travel Bans Hit African Fans Hard
In December, the Trump administration expanded travel bans that affected fans from Senegal and Ivory Coast. Both countries qualified for the World Cup, yet many supporters cannot enter the United States unless they already have visas.
US officials say they made the decision due to screening concerns. Critics argue the policy unfairly shuts out loyal fans who simply want to support their teams.
More Countries Left Out
Fans from Iran and Haiti face similar limits. Earlier travel bans already blocked their entry, and those rules still apply for the tournament.
As a result, many supporters will miss the chance to attend the biggest event in world soccer, even though their teams earned a place on the field.
A World Cup Under a Shadow
As more voices speak up, pressure continues to mount on FIFA. While organizers plan to move forward, the boycott talk shows how divided opinion has become.
For many fans, excitement now mixes with doubt. The World Cup, meant to unite nations, risks pushing people away instead.
