African journalists pressed FIFA president Gianni Infantino in Nairobi on Saturday, questioning whether their fans would feel safe and welcome at the 2026 World Cup in the United States.
Reporters voiced fears that African visitors could be treated as “outcasts” or “second-class citizens,” citing tensions within the U.S. political climate. Infantino, sitting alongside FIFA vice president Patrice Motsepe, was urged to guarantee inclusivity.
A South African journalist reminded Infantino of his repeated meetings with President Donald Trump, whose administration has advanced divisive rhetoric on immigration and travel bans. Motsepe, brother-in-law of South Africa’s president Cyril Ramaphosa, noted that African officials were working quietly with U.S. authorities to secure commitments.
At least nine African teams will participate in the 48-nation tournament, expanding across 11 U.S. cities, three in Mexico, and two in Canada. A tenth African nation may qualify through intercontinental playoffs.
Tickets for the 104 matches go on sale September 10, yet concerns remain over U.S. visa approvals, especially for fans from countries facing travel restrictions. Infantino claimed such fears were misplaced, pointing to this year’s Club World Cup in the U.S., which drew fans from 164 nations “without problems.”
“The world needs occasions of unity,” Infantino declared, urging optimism and promising the “greatest FIFA World Cup ever.” Motsepe added that African supporters would gain “sufficient access,” stressing ongoing talks had ensured smooth arrangements.
Still, African reporters stressed the responsibility lay with FIFA to guarantee equality. “The onus is on you,” one said, “to ensure Africans and others are not treated as second-class citizens.”
The World Cup runs June 11 to July 19, 2026, with the draw scheduled for December 5 at the Kennedy Center in Washington, D.C.