CPJ Warns Journalists of Risks While Covering 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has urged journalists traveling to the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup to take heightened safety precautions, warning that reporters could face immigration scrutiny, detention risks, harassment, and violence while covering the tournament.

In a statement released ahead of the World Cup, CPJ said journalists entering the United States may encounter questioning, device searches, visa complications, or hostility from immigration officials despite possessing valid press accreditation. The organization warned that recent cases involving detained, deported, or denied-entry journalists in the United States have raised concerns for international media workers preparing to cover the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. FIFA estimates that approximately 50,000 accredited journalists and media workers will attend the event, making it one of the largest media operations connected to a global sporting competition. Most matches will take place in the United States.

CPJ CEO Jodie Ginsberg said journalists should not assume that press credentials alone would guarantee protection while reporting or crossing borders. The organization argued that immigration enforcement and border screening measures in recent months have created uncertainty for foreign reporters entering the country.

The organization advised journalists to complete risk assessments before travel, establish emergency contact procedures, secure digital devices, and prepare for possible confiscation or inspection of electronic equipment at border crossings. CPJ also encouraged reporters to keep important contact information offline in case phones or laptops are seized during inspections.

In addition to concerns in the United States, CPJ warned that journalists covering corruption, organized crime, or human rights issues in Mexico could face harassment, threats, or physical violence. The organization noted that attacks on journalists in Mexico remain among the highest in the world and that risks may be particularly severe for women journalists and reporters from marginalized communities.

CPJ also highlighted potential challenges in Canada, where journalists covering protests or politically sensitive demonstrations have occasionally faced detention or arrest. The organization advised reporters covering fan gatherings, protests, and large public events connected to the World Cup to prepare for crowd-control tactics, police intervention, and potential confrontations.

The warning reflects broader international concern about press freedom and journalist safety surrounding major sporting events. Press freedom groups have previously documented cases involving surveillance, restrictions, harassment, and censorship during World Cups and Olympic Games hosted by different countries. CPJ stated that protecting journalists covering the tournament is essential to ensuring transparent and independent reporting throughout the competition.

Reference –

CPJ urges heightened awareness for journalists traveling to US for FIFA World Cup