Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter recently endorsed a fan boycott of the World Cup in the United States. He believes the country’s recent political climate, especially under President Trump, raises concerns for soccer fans.
In a post on X, Blatter supported remarks made by Mark Pieth, an expert in anti-corruption. Pieth, who once oversaw FIFA reforms, advised fans to steer clear of the U.S. during the tournament. He warned that attendees could face issues, saying, “If they don’t please the officials, they might be sent home quickly.”
The U.S. will co-host the World Cup with Canada and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. International soccer figures are uneasy about hosting there, citing Trump’s travel bans and tough immigration policies. These concerns have prompted discussions around boycotting the event.
Oke Göttlich, a vice president of the German soccer federation, recently suggested that it might be time to seriously think about a boycott. He pointed out that it could be risky for fans, especially with recent bans affecting travelers from Senegal and the Ivory Coast.
Consider this: a survey from the Pew Research Center shows that about 60% of Americans believe immigration enforcement measures are too strict. This perspective adds depth to the ongoing debate, as many fans worldwide may feel unwelcome in the U.S.
Fans from other countries, like Iran and Haiti, also face entry restrictions due to earlier travel bans. These measures have stirred discontent and concern among soccer communities.
As the World Cup approaches, the conversation around hosting the tournament in the U.S. grows louder. Whether the boycott will gain traction remains to be seen, but it has already sparked significant discussion in the global soccer community. You can find more insights and ongoing updates about the situation here.
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Protests and demonstrations, Sports, Soccer, FIFA World Cup, Article, 129582287
