Trump Border Plan Sparks Fears for Irish World Cup Fans Heading to USA ’26
There’s growing concern around a proposed new US border rule that could seriously disrupt travel plans for Irish football fans dreaming of a World Cup summer in America. Under plans linked to Donald Trump’s administration, foreign tourists could be required to submit a full five-year history of their social media activity before being allowed into the United States. And that’s where the alarm bells are really ringing.
At the moment, travellers from countries like Ireland, the UK, France, Australia and Japan can enter the US for up to 90 days without a visa by applying for an ESTA waiver. That process already asks for personal details, but this new proposal would make social media disclosure a mandatory part of the application. It’s being presented as a security measure, but critics say the net being cast is far too wide.
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The worry is that posts from years ago, taken out of context, could be used to deny entry. According to the proposal, social media would be screened for anything deemed hostile toward the US, its government, culture, or institutions. That language is vague enough to include political criticism, satire, or even emotional reactions to global events. It’s feared that fans who have criticised US policies, or even Donald Trump himself, could find their travel plans blocked.
All of this comes at a moment of real optimism for Irish football supporters. After dramatic recent results, hopes are high that Ireland could feature in the 2026 World Cup, with potential matches on US soil. Families across Ireland are already talking about flights, accommodation, and reconnecting with relatives in cities like Boston and New York. For many parents, it feels like a once-in-a-generation chance to give their children memories similar to Italia ’90 or USA ’94.
What’s causing even more unease is the sheer scale of information that could be demanded. Reports suggest travellers may be asked to submit old email addresses, phone numbers, home addresses, and even details about family members. The idea that ordinary fans could be subjected to what some describe as ideological screening has been labelled excessive and intimidating.
While few would argue against targeted checks for genuine security threats, this proposal is being criticised as disproportionate. It’s also being warned that the impact wouldn’t stop with football fans. Irish businesses, investors, and families with ties across the Atlantic could all be affected, putting strain on a long-standing relationship built on free movement and shared democratic values.
As things stand, the call is growing for the Irish government and the EU to push back firmly. In the meantime, fans are being urged not to be intimidated or silenced. The World Cup is meant to be a celebration, not a source of anxiety. And for Irish supporters dreaming of USA ’26, the hope is that common sense will ultimately prevail.
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