The FIFA World Cup 2026 will take place across Canada, Mexico, and the USA from 11 June to 19 July 2026, with matches hosted in 16 cities.
Travelling overseas for this year’s FIFA World Cup can be an exciting and memorable experience. However, large international sporting events also come with specific health, safety, and travel risks. Planning ahead and staying informed will help you enjoy the tournament safely.
Plan Ahead Before You Travel
Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers:
- Pre-existing medical conditions
- Emergency medical treatment abroad
- Medical evacuation or repatriation
Check the latest travel guidance from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) before departure. Their advice includes important information on:
- Entry and visa requirements
- Match tickets and stadium procedures
- Local laws and safety updates
It is also important to:
- Carry copies of prescriptions
- Pack enough medication for the entire trip
- Keep digital and paper copies of passports and insurance documents
- Familiarise yourself with local emergency contact numbers
Health Risks and Vaccinations
Stay Up to Date with Vaccinations
Before travelling, ensure all routine UK vaccinations and boosters are current, including:
- MMR
- Tetanus, Diphtheria and Polio (Td/IPV)
Travellers with underlying health conditions or weakened immune systems may wish to consider a COVID-19 vaccination before departure.
For travel to Mexico, additional vaccines are recommended, including:
- Hepatitis A
- Typhoid
Rabies Risk
Mexico is classified as high risk for rabies infection. Cats and dogs are a risk and may be carrying the disease. Keep you distance from all animals. If bitten, scratched, licked on an open would or on the eyes, nose or mouth, wash the wound and seek rabies treatment immediately. Rabies vaccination is available from all Nomad clinics.
Mosquitos
Mosquito-borne illnesses such as Dengue Fever and Chikungunya are also present in Mexico Symptoms include bone and muscle pain nausea, vomiting and Fever. Protect yourself by:
- Using insect repellent such as DEET or Picaridin on exposed skin
- Wearing long sleeves where possible
Seek specialist individualised travel health advice from one of our Nomad clinics before you travel.
Travellers’ Diarrhoea and First Aid
The risk of travellers’ diarrhoea is high in Mexico. This can be debilitating and ruin your trip if you cannot make it to the games. To reduce the risk:
- Wash hands regularly
- Use hand sanitiser
- Eat freshly cooked hot food
- Choose fruit you can peel yourself
- Drink bottled or purified water
Travellers should consider carrying:
- Oral rehydration salts
- Anti-diarrhoeal medication such as loperamide
Do not assume medical supplies will always be easily available locally.
A Nomad personal medical kit for minor injuries and illnesses will have medicines for Travellers diarrhoea and all the basic first aid you would need. Pop into our clinics today or visit the Masta website.
Fatigue and Travel Stress
Travelling between multiple cities and countries to attend matches can be physically exhausting. Delays, long journeys, crowded transport systems, and lack of sleep can increase stress levels and reduce awareness, making travellers more vulnerable to accidents, illness, and scams.
To reduce fatigue:
- Rest whenever possible
- Stay hydrated
- Allow plenty of travel time to stadiums
- Expect transport delays and increased security checks
Fans are advised to allow at least five hours to travel from accommodation to stadiums on match days.
Heat, Sun Exposure and Dehydration
Many host cities will experience high temperatures and humidity during the tournament. Long periods outdoors, crowded fan zones, alcohol consumption, and daytime matches can increase the risk of sunburn dehydration and heat exhaustion
Common warning signs include: headaches, dizziness, nausea, muscle cramps and confusion
Protect yourself by:
- Wearing sunscreen regularly
- Using lightweight clothing
- Staying in shaded areas where possible
- Carrying and drinking safe water frequently
Alcohol Safety
World Cup celebrations often involve heavy drinking and partying, but excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of:
- Accidents and injuries
- Dehydration
- Theft and scams
- Poor decision-making
Travellers should remain cautious and aware of drink spiking and methanol poisoning risks.
- Never leaving drinks unattended
- Avoiding drinks from strangers
- Keeping alcohol consumption moderate
- Staying alert in crowded venues
Visitors to Mexico should also be aware that drinking alcohol in public places, including outside stadiums and restaurants, is illegal and may result in fines or arrest.
Crowd Safety
Large crowds at stadiums, fan zones, and transport hubs can present safety risks.
To stay safe:
- Locate emergency exits when entering stadiums
- Avoid pushing or densely packed crowds
- Move calmly with crowds before exiting to the side if you can
- Travel with friends or groups where possible
- Arrange meeting points in case anyone becomes separated
Pickpocketing and Scams
Major sporting events often attract organised thieves and scammers. Common issues include:
- Fake tickets
- Card cloning
- Phone theft
- Bag snatching
Protect yourself by keeping valuables secure at all times.
- Avoiding displays of expensive items
- Wearing bags across the body or in front of you
- Staying alert to distraction techniques
- Using ATMs inside banks
Violence Between Supporters
Although most fans attend peacefully, tensions can sometimes rise between rival supporters, particularly where alcohol is involved. Avoid arguments or confrontations and leave situations where aggression appears to be escalating.
Terrorism and Security Awareness
Large international sporting events are considered potential targets for terrorism and other security incidents. Expect heightened security measures, including:
- Bag searches
- Armed police presence
- Surveillance and restricted access zones
Always follow instructions from local authorities and stadium staff immediately during emergencies or evacuations.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 promises to be an unforgettable experience for football fans travelling across North America. By preparing properly, staying aware of your surroundings, and taking sensible health and safety precautions, you can enjoy the tournament while reducing travel risks and staying safe throughout your trip.
https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/news/907/heading-abroad-to-watch-the-fifa-football-world-cup
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/usa/world-cup-2026
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/mexico/world-cup-2026
https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/canada/world-cup-2026
