FIFA President Gianni Infantino has moved to ease concerns among African fans over safety and hospitality in the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking at a news conference in Nairobi on Saturday, Infantino was questioned by African journalists about fears that visitors from the continent may feel unwelcome or treated as “second-class citizens” during the tournament.
“We are going to play it in a country where some of us do not feel welcome,” said a South African reporter, urging FIFA to guarantee fair treatment for all fans.
Infantino responded: “Everyone will be welcome in North America next year for the World Cup. There are a lot of misconceptions out there. Fans came from 164 countries to the month-long Club World Cup … without any problems with visas.”
CAF President Patrice Motsepe, seated beside Infantino, also gave assurances, saying: “We are confident that African supporters will have sufficient access to the World Cup next year.”
Infantino described the expanded 48-team tournament as an opportunity for unity: “The world needs occasions of unity. Be positive ; it will be a great celebration of the greatest World Cup ever.”
The competition will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across 11 U.S. cities, three in Mexico and two in Canada. At least nine African nations are expected to qualify, with Egypt, Morocco, Ghana and South Africa currently leading their groups, while a tenth could secure a spot via the intercontinental playoffs.
Tickets for all 104 matches go on sale on September 10.
