World Cup 2026: Los Angeles Fans Elated but Frustrated by Ticket Prices and Visa Policies

Los Angeles is basking in the atmosphere of the 2026 World Cup, the first time the tournament has returned to Southern California in 32 years. The city is hosting eight matches, including the U.S. team's opener against Paraguay on Friday. However, the football fever is overshadowed by high ticket prices and anxieties over the visa and immigration policies of President Donald Trump's administration.

Juan Cortes, an auto repair shop owner in Los Angeles, has hung U.S. and Mexican flags outside his store to welcome the football celebration. Despite his passion for the sport, he cannot afford match tickets. “I wish they would help people like us – those who love football and love the team – get a chance to see the stars play. It’s not every day I get to witness a World Cup in my own country,” Cortes told Al Jazeera. Tickets for the host nation's opener were still available on resale sites just 12 hours before kickoff.

Francisco Aguilar, a fan from Texas, also failed to secure tickets. He believes organizers prioritize profit over fan access. “It’s sad when you can’t get into the stadium; it’s a class issue,” Aguilar said. Despite the disappointment, he is excited to watch stars like Lamine Yamal (Spain) and predicts a rematch between Argentina and France in the final.

Beyond ticket prices, visa and travel issues in the U.S. are also dampening enthusiasm. Last week, U.S. authorities denied entry to Somali referee Omar Artan, who was assigned to officiate some matches. Iraqi player Aymen Hussein was detained for nearly seven hours upon arrival in Chicago before being allowed into the country. Many fans from around the world have also reported visa denials. In March, Trump said it would not be “appropriate” for Iran's team to participate in the World Cup, suggesting they stay away for “safety reasons.” Subsequently, Iran’s team set up base in Mexico, flying to the U.S. only for matches before returning.

Another worry is the possibility of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) conducting sweeps at stadiums. The Trump administration has not ruled out deploying ICE to matches. Lisa Walker, an activist with the group Venice Resistance, held an “ICE out” sign at a small protest. “I don’t see any reason why we should ban people during the World Cup. This is the World Cup,” she said, criticizing the administration's travel bans.

Nevertheless, Jan Wilkinson, an English fan from London, said he had no issues entering the U.S., though he admitted the denial of referee Artan was “not nice.” He praised the lively atmosphere in Los Angeles: “It’s buzzing, it’s great.” Wilkinson is confident England will win: “We’ve been saying that for 60 years, but this year it’s coming home.”