Former President Trump's Controversial Policy for FIFA World Cup Tourists to Disclose Online Activity Described as 'Chilling'
A newly proposed requirement for World Cup fans journeying to the US to hand over their online account information has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."
Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Applicants
According to the proposal, visitors from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be obliged to provide details about online accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Previously, providing this information was voluntary.
"The US government's announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they cross a border."
He continued, "This policy introduces a climate of fear of monitoring that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."
Origins in an Previous Presidential Directive
The proposal follows an presidential directive signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that seeks "to ensure that all foreign nationals seeking admission the United States are vetted and screened to the fullest extent possible."
Official Statement and Justification
A representative for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offered context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the country," the spokesperson stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is merely the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to protect the public safe."
The spokesperson further noted, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those coming into the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in Washington DC. The measure is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to gather further data from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."