The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest in history, and for African fans, the excitement is amplified by a historic nine allocated slots.

However, as anticipation builds, a critical question lingers: will visa challenges prevent supporters from following their teams to the United States, Canada, and Mexico?

According to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the answer is no. Speaking in Nairobi, where he was attending the African Nations Championship (CHAN) final, Infantino delivered a powerful message of assurance to African supporters.

He revealed that the three host nations have committed to a seamless visa process to accommodate fans, teams, and volunteers.

“Everyone will be welcome in Canada, Mexico, and the United States for the World Cup next year,” Infantino told reporters on Saturday.

He pointed to the recent Club World Cup, where fans from 164 different countries traveled without a hitch, as an example of what’s possible.

“The visa process will be smooth and will ensure that those who qualify can travel with their fans,” he affirmed.

Infantino, who was accompanied by Confederation of African Football (CAF) President Patrice Motsepe, noted that discussions with North American governments are ongoing to guarantee inclusive participation.

While he acknowledged that every country has its own legislation, he stressed the hosts’ clear commitment to making the process easy for fans from around the world.

The FIFA president also used the opportunity to highlight a similar challenge within Africa, pointing out that some African nations still make it difficult for their neighbors to enter.

“We have to work on that, we have to make it better, we have to make it seamless,” he said, emphasizing that ease of movement should be a priority both globally and continentally.

Beyond visas, Infantino encouraged Africans to seize the chance to be part of the historic tournament by volunteering.

“The World Cup is an unforgettable experience,” he said, “Africa must be part of this.”

With a record 48 teams competing for the first time, the 2026 World Cup is a significant opportunity for African football to shine on the global stage.

And with FIFA’s promise of a smoother journey, it seems the continent’s passionate fans may get to witness it all firsthand.