With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just days away, the International Sports Press Association (AIPS) has raised alarm over US visa hurdles facing accredited journalists, calling on FIFA to step in before media access is compromised.
AIPS says multiple journalists who received official FIFA accreditation are now encountering visa restrictions that could lock them out of the tournament. The association warns the situation is “unacceptable” and risks undermining coverage of the first 48-team World Cup co-hosted by the US, Canada and Mexico.
In a letter sent Friday, June 5, AIPS President Gianni Merlo urged FIFA Director of Media Relations Bryan Swanson and Head of Media Operations & Services Jochen Steinhoff to act urgently.
Merlo highlighted cases involving Iranian and African reporters. Some, he said, were issued single-entry visas only. That means if they travel with their national teams to matches in Canada or Mexico, they cannot re-enter the United States for later games.
“The cases are countless and, I repeat, unacceptable,” Merlo wrote. “Politicians always say that sport unites and builds bridges between young people in countries in conflict, but in this case, we are going in the opposite direction.”
AIPS stressed that media presence is vital to the tournament’s image, especially in the US where press freedom is expected. The association said delays have already cost journalists non-refundable flights and will lead to extra expenses.
“We believe it is important to allow colleagues to attend the event and work, because their presence will be crucial to the image of sport and what it represents,” Merlo stated. “I hope FIFA can do everything possible to secure visas. We’re already significantly behind schedule.”
The 2026 World Cup kicks off next week. AIPS is now waiting on FIFA to negotiate with US authorities and ensure all accredited media can enter without wrongful denial.