MFAT Issues Travel Warning for FIFA World Cup 2026

New Zealand citizens may be considering traveling to support the All Whites football team at FIFA World Cup 2026. This tournament will be held across three North American countries, namely Mexico, the United States and Canada.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs And Trade advises New Zealanders contemplating travel to keep on high alert and warns them of these particular risks in each country.

GUN VIOLENCE: Visitors may encounter gun violence in the following circumstances:

1) MEXICO: Drug cartels engaged in territorial battles

2) UNITED STATES: Rampaging disaffected young men and NRA First-Amendment absolutists

3) CANADA: Documentaries on CBC television about Mexican drug cartels and American rampaging disaffected young men and NRA First-Amendment absolutists

CORRUPTION, POLITICAL FAVOURS, PAYBACK AND REVENGE: Customs and practices differ, so these may be experienced:

1) MEXICO: Across many levels of government

2) UNITED STATES: Across the top level of government

3) CANADA: According to rumours, in isolated cases of rigged bingo games in church fundraisers

HIGH-ALERT ZONES: Exercise caution when venturing into:

1) MEXICO: Areas abandoned by law enforcement

2) UNITED STATES: Areas patrolled by law enforcement if you are a) driving a late-model car and b) not white.

3) CANADA: Anywhere outside in winter. Put on a coat!