The Trump administration has announced that athletes, coaches, and support staff participating in major sporting events, including the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games, will be exempt from a visa ban affecting nearly 40 countries. A State Department cable specified that this exemption also covers events sanctioned by various U.S. sports leagues. However, foreign spectators, media, and sponsors still face travel restrictions unless they qualify for other exemptions. The travel ban applies fully to certain countries and partially to others, reflecting ongoing immigration control efforts.
