More than 16,800 fans have pulled out from the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico due to safety concerns following the ICE shooting incident in Minnesota.
The path to the 2026 World Cup has encountered a concerning obstacle
Tens of thousands of supporters are starting to withdraw from the forthcoming high-profile tournament due to escalating safety concerns, political instability, and human rights issues in the United States — prompting FIFA to arrange an urgent meeting this week.
As reported by Roya News, approximately 16,800 ticket holders withdrew from their World Cup involvement overnight due to swiftly circulating boycott calls on social media.
Due to FIFA’s strict no-refund policy on World Cup tickets, this number is thought to indicate fans backing out of Phase Three ticket sales, which encompasses random draw applications and purchases via member associations.
Fans from abroad especially expressed unease regarding the existing political environment and worries about their personal safety when visiting the US.
For many, the critical moment seems to have been a deadly shooting related to ICE in Minneapolis — where a 37-year-old mother of three was killed during an ICE traffic stop — igniting concerns regarding policing, public safety, and civil unrest.
What was intended to be an international football celebration is rapidly turning into a reason for discomfort.
The 2026 World Cup is significant: it will be the first featuring 48 teams and the inaugural event hosted jointly by the US, Canada, and Mexico. Yet rather than excitement, unease is increasing.
Supporters from Europe, South America, and Africa have expressed that they no longer feel secure traveling to the US.
Due to FIFA’s rigid no-refund policy on purchased World Cup tickets, it is thought that the number indicates fans opting out of Phase Three of ticket sales, which encompasses random draw applications and acquisitions via member associations
The repercussions are already being experienced. Hotel reservations in host cities have allegedly decreased, while prices for ticket resales have fallen.In reaction, FIFA has arranged an urgent meeting with high-ranking officials and event organizers.
Conversations are anticipated to center on safety issues for fans, decreasing ticket pledges, and the increasing reputational danger linked to the tournament.
What Helped Virat Kohli Reclaim the No. 1 ODI Ranking After Four Years?
January 14, 2026
Due to his impressive performance, Virat Kohli has regained the number one position among ODI batters globally. A fantastic performance has propelled ‘Chasemaster’ Virat Kohli to the number one position in the ICC ODI Rankings for batters. Kohli has moved ahead of teammate Rohit Sharma, who has dropped to third place. Daryl Mitchell from New
Why Michael Carrick Has Been Chosen to Steady Manchester United?
January 14, 2026
Michael Carrick has been officially appointed as the new interim manager for Manchester United, as the Red Devils strive to achieve Champions League qualification. The quiet has been lifted: Michael Carrick is now appointed as the interim manager for Manchester United through the season’s conclusion. What Is Manchester United’s League Position Under Carrick’s Appointment? The
What Triggered The Sudden 2026 World Cup Ticket Cancellations?
January 13, 2026
More than 16,800 fans have pulled out from the 2026 World Cup in the US, Canada, and Mexico due to safety concerns following the ICE shooting incident in Minnesota. The path to the 2026 World Cup has encountered a concerning obstacle Tens of thousands of supporters are starting to withdraw from the forthcoming high-profile tournament
“Impossible!”: Ronaldo’s Furious Reaction After Shock Substitution
January 13, 2026
Ronaldo netted a goal for Al Nassr but was substituted in frustration as Al Hilal triumphed 3-1, placing Al Nassr seven points adrift in the Saudi Pro League. Cristiano Ronaldo’s anger erupted on Monday night as Al Nassr’s championship hopes faced a significant setback in a 3-1 loss to Saudi Pro League frontrunners Al Hilal.
What Happened in the NBA Last Night? Lakers Falter, Pacers Shock Celtics
January 13, 2026
Doncic tallied 42 points, yet the Lakers fell 124–112 to the Sacramento Kings. Pacers shocked Celtics with Siakam’s game-winner. Lowry received a hero’s send-off in Toronto. Cavaliers were defeated by Jazz. Why Did the Lakers Lose Despite Luka Doncic’s 42 Points? Luka Doncic scored a game-high 42 points, yet even his excellence couldn’t prevent the
Why LeBron James Is Wearing a Special Patch in His 23rd NBA Season
January 13, 2026
LeBron James showcases a unique patch on his Lakers uniform in Sacramento, celebrating his 23rd NBA season. LeBron James’ jersey will narrate a tale each evening for the remainder of the season. LeBron James’ Jersey Patch Tells a 23-Year Story When the Los Angeles Lakers take on the Sacramento Kings on Monday — appropriately, in
Why Did WNBA–WNBPA CBA Talks Break Down?
January 13, 2026
WNBA and WNBPA initiate a moratorium after not reaching an agreement on a new CBA, pausing free agency and expansion initiatives due to disagreements over salary cap proposals and revenue sharing. WNBA Free Agency Explained: Why Everything Is Suddenly Frozen? The WNBA offseason has come to a halt. The league and the Women’s National Basketball
Why WNBA Players Say the Two Sides Are Still “Far Apart”
January 13, 2026
The collective bargaining agreement of the WNBA has ended without a new arrangement, as discussions have halted on salary and revenue sharing, even with the league’s rising popularity. The WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement officially ended at midnight Friday, with the league and players’ union still at odds over key matters and no extension anticipated. The
Man United Consider Michael Carrick as Caretaker After Amorim Exit
January 12, 2026
Michael Carrick is in advanced discussions to take over as Manchester United’s caretaker head coach following Ruben Amorim’s dismissal, and Solskjaer has also been interviewed. Old Trafford might soon be seeing the return of another well-known figure. Various sources indicate that ex-Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick is leading the race to become caretaker head coach,