Uzbekistan MFA Issues World Cup 2026 Fan Travel Guide

Tashkent, Uzbekistan (UzDaily.com) — As Uzbekistan prepares for its historic first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance, the Foreign Ministry is warning fans heading to North America that they will be watched — not just as supporters, but as representatives of their nation.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued a formal set of recommendations to citizens planning to attend World Cup 2026 matches in the United States and Mexico to cheer on the national team. Spokesperson Omonulla Fayziyev, responding to media questions, confirmed that the tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, and underscored that this marks the first time in independent Uzbekistan's history that its national squad has qualified for a World Cup.

What Fans Are Being Told

The ministry's guidance is practical and pointed. Fans are advised to research entry rules, visa requirements, and immigration procedures for host countries well in advance, and to ensure all travel documents are valid and up to date. Carrying original passports and key documents at all times is recommended, alongside keeping both digital and physical copies as backup.

Authorities placed particular emphasis on strict compliance with host-country laws, adherence to law enforcement instructions, and observance of accepted standards of public conduct. Fans are also urged to plan travel routes in advance, rely on official transport and information services, exercise personal safety precautions in crowded venues, and avoid participation in any unauthorized mass gatherings.

Should emergencies arise — including loss of documents or other difficulties — citizens are directed to contact local emergency services and Uzbekistan's diplomatic missions in the United States, which confirmed readiness to provide consular and legal assistance as needed.

A Moment of National Visibility

The ministry's tone went beyond logistics. Officials stressed that the World Cup will bring significantly heightened international attention to Uzbekistan and its citizens, meaning every fan in the stands will be perceived not merely as a football supporter, but as a de facto ambassador for the country. Uzbek fans were called upon to represent their homeland with dignity, and to show respect for the laws, public order, local traditions, and cultures of the host nations.