World Cup ticket holders can get expedited US visa appointments, but officials warn tickets don’t guarantee entry amid Trump’s border policies.
WASHINGTON: President Donald Trump has unveiled special fast-track visas for people holding tickets to the 2026 World Cup.
The announcement came during an Oval Office appearance with FIFA president Gianni Infantino on Monday.
Trump encouraged potential visitors to apply immediately for the expedited processing.
“For those who intend to join us for the World Cup, I strongly encourage you to apply right away,” Trump said.
Infantino described the “FIFA Pass” initiative as a critically important development for tournament logistics.
“If you have a ticket for the World Cup, you can have a prioritized appointment to get your visa,” Infantino stated.
He projected between five and 10 million international visitors would attend the World Cup matches.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio immediately tempered expectations about the program’s guarantees.
“Your ticket is not a visa,” Rubio cautioned during the announcement.
“It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. It guarantees you an expedited appointment, you’re still going to go through the same vetting.”
Rubio confirmed ticket holders would receive visa interviews within six to eight weeks under the expedited system.
He urged prospective applicants not to delay their visa applications despite the faster processing timeline.
The World Cup represents a centerpiece of Trump’s second presidential term and America’s 250th independence anniversary celebrations.
Political controversies have nonetheless surrounded tournament preparations amid Trump’s immigration crackdowns.
Trump has previously suggested relocating games from certain host cities over crime and migration concerns in Democratic-led municipalities.
The World Cup draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington.
FIFA will present a new peace prize on the same day, with speculation mounting that Trump might receive the inaugural award. – AFP
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