Times asks international fans if U.S. travel hurdles will keep them from World Cup

The New York Times is asking readers outside the United States whether travel hurdles will keep them from attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches scheduled in the United States.

More than one million people are expected to visit the United States this summer for the tournament, which will feature teams from 48 countries playing in 11 U.S. cities as well as in Mexico and Canada. With less than six months to go until the first kickoff, the Times says international fans face travel bans and restrictions, long wait times for visas, stringent new requirements at the border and high ticket prices — factors that could limit who can attend matches in the United States, including fans of teams like Argentina.

The paper asks readers who are considering or planning trips to tell their stories, noting some may be choosing matches in Mexico or Canada instead. The Times says it will read every response, reach out if it is interested in learning more, and will not publish submissions or share contact information outside the newsroom without permission.

The call for responses was published by Gabe Castro-Root, a travel reporter and a member of the 2025-26 Times Fellowship class.

Key Topics

World, Mexico, Canada, Visa Delays, Ticket Prices