The International Sports Press Association (AIPS) has urged FIFA to act swiftly to resolve ongoing visa issues affecting accredited journalists ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which begins in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With the tournament just days away, AIPS has raised alarms over the continued denial or restriction of entry visas for media personnel who have already been officially accredited by FIFA. The situation, described as “unacceptable” by AIPS President Gianni Merlo, threatens to hinder global sports coverage and undermines the spirit of international unity that football is meant to represent.
In a formal letter dated June 5, Merlo addressed FIFA Director of Media Relations Bryan Swanson and FIFA Head of Media Operations and Services Jochen Steinhoff, expressing deep concern over the visa barriers faced by journalists from various regions. He highlighted specific cases involving reporters from Iran and Africa, some of whom have been granted only single-entry visas. These restrictions could prevent them from re-entering the United States if they travel to cover matches in co-host nations Canada or Mexico, disrupting their ability to report on the full scope of the tournament.
Merlo emphasized that the visa challenges contradict the widely promoted ideals of sport as a unifying force. “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,” he stated. He stressed that journalists play a vital role in promoting the image and values of sport on the global stage, particularly in a country like the United States, where freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democracy.
The delays in visa processing have already caused significant financial strain for many journalists. Some have missed previously booked flights and now face additional travel costs, adding to the stress of last-minute travel arrangements. Merlo urged FIFA to intervene immediately to ensure that all accredited media professionals can enter the host nations without obstruction. “I hope FIFA can do everything possible to secure visas. We’re already significantly behind schedule,” he said.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be the largest in history with matches across North America, is expected to draw millions of fans and media from around the world. The smooth participation of accredited journalists is critical to delivering comprehensive, accurate, and timely coverage. As the tournament approaches, the resolution of these visa issues remains a pressing concern for the global sports media community. The outcome will not only affect press access but also reflect on FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity and transparency in international football.
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