In a heartfelt message delivered from Nairobi, FIFA President Gianni Infantino moved to calm growing concerns among African football fans about safety, hospitality, and fair treatment at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States.

African journalists had raised worries that supporters from the continent could face discrimination or be treated as “outcasts” when the world’s biggest football showpiece kicks off across 11 U.S. cities.

Infantino, however, stressed that the tournament would be open, welcoming, and inclusive. He pointed to the recent Club World Cup hosted in the U.S., which saw fans from 164 countries attend without visa or safety issues.

“Everyone will be welcome. Fans came from 164 countries to the Club World Cup without any problems. The same spirit of hospitality and safety will define the 2026 World Cup,” Infantino assured.

Standing alongside him, CAF President Patrice Motsepe echoed this confidence, promising that African fans would be given fair access and support. “We are confident that all requirements will be fulfilled, and there will be sufficient access for African fans,” Motsepe said.

The joint message was more than reassurance—it was a rallying call for global unity. Infantino described the 2026 edition, which will feature 48 teams and host matches across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, as “the greatest FIFA World Cup ever.”

With at least nine African nations expected to compete, the expanded tournament is being framed not just as a celebration of football, but as a chance to bridge cultures and promote friendship worldwide. Tickets for the 104 matches officially go on sale on September 10, setting the stage for a historic global festival.