LGBTQ groups express concerns over safety at World Cup in US

Ahead of the 2026 FIFA Men's World Cup, England's LGBTQ supporters' group, Three Lions Pride (3LP), has announced it will not have a visible presence at the tournament due to concerns over the political climate in the United States. Citing a "dangerous rollback of human rights," 3LP emphasized risks for fans, especially transgender individuals, amid new regulations imposed by the Trump administration. Other supporter groups, including Germany's Queer Football Fanclub, have expressed similar sentiments. Human Rights Watch has criticized FIFA's assurances, stating that LGBTQ fans would need to protect themselves and could face challenges at the US border. These developments have raised ongoing questions about the inclusivity of the World Cup as its start date approaches.