Sepp Blatter backs fan boycott of 2026 World Cup in United States | OneFootball

Sepp Blatter has said supporters should avoid the United States during the 2026 World Cup, citing security concerns, and he backed a boycott. He set out his view on Monday, with the tournament scheduled from 11 June to 19 July.

He amplified comments by Swiss anti-corruption lawyer Mark Pieth, made in an interview with Tages-Anzeiger, who questioned whether the event should proceed.

Pieth pointed to domestic issues in the United States, including the marginalisation of political opponents and alleged immigration abuses, arguing that fans would be better off watching on television and could be swiftly sent home if they fall foul of authorities.

Blatter, 89, led FIFA from 1998 to 2015 and has been a persistent critic of its current president, Gianni Infantino. Accused of fraud over a 2 million Swiss franc payment, he and Michel Platini were acquitted by Swiss judges in 2025, the sum equating to 1.8 million euros.

Amid tensions over a stated US intention to annex Greenland and threats of higher tariffs on European states that oppose it, early calls in Europe for a boycott, or even cancellation, have begun to surface. The 2026 finals are due to be hosted in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

Source: L'Équipe