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The European Union has asked FIFA President Gianni Infantino to ensure that European fans are protected when they travel to the United States for the World Cup this summer, the European Commissioner for Sport confirmed to Euractiv.
Several fan groups in Europe have expressed concerns about the current security climate in the US, including high-profile immigration enforcement operations. They have sought assurances ahead of the tournament.
EU Commissioner for Sports Policy Glenn Micallef told Euractiv that he had a "constructive" conversation with Infantino in Brussels last week, on the sidelines of a UEFA congress.
" I asked him to keep the safety of the travelling fans in mind when he talks to the organisers ," Micallef told Euractiv in an exclusive interview . He added that he had been in contact with official fan groups regarding their safety concerns.
" We need to engage in dialogue with the organizers and with FIFA to ensure that every person traveling to the US is safe ," the Maltese official stressed.
Eight national teams from EU countries will take part in the World Cup, which takes place in June and July. The tournament is hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, with most matches taking place on American soil.
According to Euractiv, US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents accompanied the American delegation to the Winter Olympics in Italy, a move that has sparked backlash due to the controversy surrounding the agency's actions in the US. The head of ICE has stated before Congress that the agency will be part of security operations for the tournament.
A US State Department spokesperson responded in the background, stressing that “ the security of World Cup matches, athletes, fans and venues, as well as the ongoing security of the United States, constitute a top priority for the host country .”
Brussels considers Infantino a key mediator, given his close relationship with US President Donald Trump, with whom he has participated in several public events. In December, Infantino awarded Trump with FIFA's first "peace" award.
Ronan Evain, executive director of the Football Supporters Europe organization, who met with Micallef in Brussels, said he welcomed the commissioner's commitment, as he believes he can influence the FIFA president.
Evain expressed particular concern that the US is not allowing some participating countries, such as France, Germany and the United Kingdom, to send police delegations to escort fans, as is customary at the World Cup. He urged FIFA to clarify its “security doctrine,” warning that otherwise it risks appearing unprepared.
Asked if he would participate in the tournament, Micallef said he had not received an invitation and called the event "very expensive."
The commissioner, who plays football himself, also criticised FIFA's "dynamic pricing" system for tickets, arguing that it could exclude fans from attending. "The prices are too high. I've seen some that reach thousands of euros," he told Euractiv.
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