Trump's Proposed Plan for FIFA World Cup Visitors to Reveal Online Histories Labeled as 'Alarming'

A recently unveiled requirement for soccer tournament fans traveling to the United States to hand over their online account information has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Submission for ESTA Applicants

Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide details about online accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this data was voluntary.

"These announced plans 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 added, "The measure creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The plan follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in January that aims "to ensure that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are vetted and screened to the fullest extent feasible."

Official Statement and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency provided context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those traveling to the country," the official said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the public safe."

The representative added, "We are continuously evaluating how we vet those entering the country, especially after the terrorist attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the earlier 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 using the visa waiver programme."