Former President Trump's Proposed Plan for World Cup Visitors to Reveal Online Activity Described as 'Alarming'

A newly proposed requirement for soccer tournament supporters journeying to the United States to disclose their social media account information has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Applicants

According to the proposal, tourists from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide details about social media accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Until now, providing this data was optional.

"The US government's proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," said Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He continued, "This policy introduces a climate of fear of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is meant to represent and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal follows an presidential directive issued by former President Trump in January that aims "to guarantee that all aliens wishing to enter the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent feasible."

Official Statement and Justification

A spokesperson for the border agency offered context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this front for those traveling to the country," the official said. "This is not a final rule, it is merely the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to protect the public safe."

The spokesperson added, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those coming into the country, particularly after the recent attack in Washington DC. The measure is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to gather further data from non-US citizens applying through the visa waiver programme."