• US cities prepare for FIFA World Cup amid concerns over immigration policies.
• President Trump deployed Marines to Los Angeles, sparking controversy.
• FIFA president optimistic despite travel bans affecting international fans.
• California Governor condemned military actions as authoritarian measures.
• Local officials address logistical and safety preparations for the World Cup.

As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup begins, U.S. cities hosting the event are taking steps to reassure international fans amidst growing concerns over President Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown and travel ban. The upcoming tournament will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico and will feature a record 48 teams competing in 104 matches, according to Dawn, Reuters, and Channel News Asia.

The year-to-go event was marked by a celebrity-red carpet at the Fox Studio Lot in Los Angeles, just a day after President Trump ordered the deployment of Marines and the National Guard to manage protests linked to his immigration policies. California Governor Gavin Newsom decried the deployment as an “unmistakable step toward authoritarianism,” while Trump administration officials defended their actions, arguing that the protests were lawless, as reported by Dawn and Reuters.

Amidst this turmoil, FIFA President Gianni Infantino expressed confidence that international fans would be welcomed to the World Cup, despite challenges posed by recent travel bans. Notably, Iran, the only country among the 12 affected by these restrictions, has qualified for the tournament. Infantino reinforced this sentiment after a recent meeting with Trump, emphasizing the need for cooperation, according to Channel News Asia and Reuters.

Local leaders expressed their determination to ensure the safety and security of fans, with Miami's host committee chair, Alina Hudak, emphasizing her role in coordinating with law enforcement agencies. She mentioned that logistical readiness is a priority, stating, “I have been in touch with the local consular corps to address their concerns and to offer support,” as noted by Dawn and Reuters.

Furthermore, the focus remains on ensuring broad participation, with Minky Worden from Human Rights Watch urging FIFA to partner with the U.S. government to safeguard the rights of all participants. She called for FIFA to address anti-human rights policies and set concrete timelines for necessary changes, emphasizing the importance of immigrant rights for the integrity of the tournament, according to Dawn and Channel News Asia.