2026 World Cup host countries asked to relax fan restrictions — Sports Minister
Ghana’s Sports and Recreation Minister, Kofi Adams, has urged the host nations of the 2026 World Cup to ease certain visa and entry requirements for supporters planning to attend the tournament. The 48-team global event will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico starting June 2026.
Adams pointed out that many passionate football fans may lack formal proof of social or economic ties, such as property ownership, marriage or consistent bank history, which are often required under current visa procedures. He argued this could prevent ordinary but enthusiastic supporters from attending despite strong desire to cheer their teams.
He remarked that being a fan does not necessarily mean having traditional documents and asked whether lack of such reductions should bar one from travelling to watch the World Cup. His comments reflect a push for more inclusive access, especially for fans from countries where documentation and formal asset records are often limited.
The call by the Sports Minister comes as many Ghanaian fans are preparing logistics for travel, but face concerns over visa eligibility. Adams stressed that relaxing certain restrictions can help uphold the spirit of global sports unity and ensure that access is not limited to only privileged fans.
With debates ongoing about how to balance security, immigration rules and inclusivity, the spotlight now turns to the United States, Canada and Mexico as they design fan-entry policies for the tournament. Whether they will heed this call may significantly shape fan participation from across the world.
