Vice President JD Vance has come under fire after making a controversial joke about immigration during a press briefing focused on the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States.
Vance appeared alongside President Donald Trump during a high-profile media event at the White House, where the pair discussed preparations for the massive sporting event. The comment—delivered with a grin—drew immediate criticism from football fans and human rights advocates alike, who found the remark out of touch with the current political climate.
Gianni Infantino, president of FIFA, was also present and attempted to emphasize the spirit of inclusion surrounding the tournament. “The U.S. is opening its arms to the world,” Infantino said at the official launch of the United States FIFA World Cup Committee. “Fans from all walks of life will be able to travel, engage, and celebrate football in a truly global environment.”
Despite Infantino’s efforts to project a welcoming message, President Trump’s own misstep—revealing he was unaware of Russia’s ban from international play—was quickly overshadowed by Vance’s ill-timed remark.
“We’re excited to host such a historic event,” Vance said to the assembled media. “Fans from nearly 100 nations will be joining us. We want them to enjoy the matches, soak in the atmosphere, and feel part of something special.
“But when the final whistle blows, it’s time to go home. If not, well—Secretary Kristi Noem will be waiting to have a word.”
The reference to Noem, Secretary of Homeland Security and former South Dakota governor, was interpreted by many as a thinly veiled threat tied to the administration’s aggressive immigration enforcement tactics. Noem herself has previously supported controversial deportation policies, including the use of facilities flagged by international watchdogs.
The backlash online was swift and fierce. One post on X (formerly Twitter) slammed the comment as “dangerously insensitive and idiotic.” Another user stated, “Maybe the World Cup should be hosted elsewhere,” while a different commenter noted, “Tourism is set to generate billions during this World Cup, and this is the message you send? Unbelievable.”
Donald Trump, President of the United States of America (Image: Getty)
Several users called for FIFA to reconsider its choice of host nation, citing growing discomfort over the political rhetoric coming from the White House. “This isn’t just a bad joke,” one wrote. “It’s a reflection of deeper issues that could seriously harm attendance and international participation.”
Some warned that the 2026 World Cup, which could become the most profitable in the event’s history, may face boycotts or diplomatic fallout if similar incidents continue.
“It’s hard to take ‘welcome’ seriously when your VP is joking about deportation,” one user concluded. “It’s not funny. It’s chilling.”
