Spread the wordAs the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup gathers momentum, an unsettling shadow looms over what should be the greatest global celebration of football: fear. Truth be told, many football lovers across the globe would ordinarily seek U.S. or Canadian visas to fully experience the tournament. Unsurprisingly, whispers—and in some cases open discussions—of partial withdrawals or outright boycotts by concerned nations have begun to circulate, threatening the inclusive spirit upon which the World Cup is built. Community-focused agencies such as PAD in the Atlanta metropolitan area continue to expand staffing, training, and preparedness—working to ensure that wellness, safety, and equitable access remain central during the World Cup and beyond. The 2026 FIFA World Cup should be remembered for goals, glory, and global unity—not for fear at the borders or intimidation in the streets.