FIFA accused of prioritizing profits over human rights at 2026 World Cup

A joint report by the Sport & Rights Alliance and Football Supporters Europe alleges that FIFA leadership prioritized record revenues over human rights during the 2026 Men’s World Cup. The 50-page document, titled “Profit Over People: The 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup,” claims the organization failed to implement its own 2017 Human Rights Policy.

The report details how fans, athletes, and journalists faced discriminatory barriers, including visa restrictions, prolonged border interrogations, and travel limitations based on nationality. These issues reportedly disproportionately affected individuals from countries with stricter immigration policies. Additionally, the report cites concerns regarding cost accessibility, unclear safeguarding standards, and a lack of effective remedies for violations.

Critics also highlighted FIFA’s decision to award an unvetted “FIFA Peace Prize” to U.S. President Donald Trump. Andrea Florence, Executive Director of the Sport & Rights Alliance, stated that the tournament’s leadership failed to use its leverage to uphold human rights obligations. In response, FIFA Secretary General Mattias Grafstrom acknowledged that the report “raises important concerns and identifies areas where new progress can be made.”