Kenya, Sept. 10 -- World Cup hosted America's concerns are mounting as football fans voice growing unease about the United States co-hosting the 2026 tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, with online discussions highlighting fears over immigration policies, infrastructure readiness, and safety.

The backlash intensified after recent incidents during the Club World Cup and amid tightened travel restrictions under the Trump administration, prompting calls for FIFA to reconsider the U.S. as a host, though the global body has yet to respond officially.

The controversy gained traction following chaotic scenes at the 2025 Club World Cup, where severe weather delays and security mishaps, like the prolonged Chelsea-Benfica suspension, left fans frustrated.

Posts on social media echo sentiments from Spain's Victor Dumois, who cited overzealous security and poor stadium access as reasons to doubt U.S. preparedness.

Adding fuel, the reinstated travel ban targeting nations like Iran and Haiti has raised alarms, with fans from affected countries potentially barred unless they're athletes or officials, creating fears of empty stadiums and competitive imbalances.

Critics also point to ICE's aggressive border tactics, questioning how a nation with such policies can welcome global visitors, a concern echoed in reports from The Nation suggesting a boycott of U.S. matches to avoid risks to fans and teams.

The debate reflects broader worries about America's ability to showcase unity, with some fans arguing that Canada and Mexico offer more inclusive alternatives.

Others note economic disparities, like the $64 billion tourism hit predicted if fan turnout falters, as reported by The Guardian.

Despite FIFA's promotional efforts on platforms like X, the narrative is shifting toward relocation talks, though no concrete moves have surfaced.

As the debate over the World Cup hosted by America rages, pressure mounts on FIFA to address fan grievances and ensure a fair tournament.

With less than a year until kickoff on June 11, 2026, organisers face a tight window to improve infrastructure and ease travel concerns, lest the event's spirit be overshadowed by logistical and political strife. Fans across the globe eagerly anticipate a resolution that upholds the global appeal of football.

Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.