White House: Athletes, coaches, and immediate relatives traveling for World Cup, Olympics or major sports events are exempted

White House: Athletes, coaches, and immediate relatives traveling for World Cup, Olympics or major sports events are exempted

The White House has announced that athletes, coaches, and immediate relatives traveling for the World Cup, Olympics, or major sports events are now exempted from travel restrictions. This new policy aims to facilitate the participation of American athletes and support teams in global sporting events, while also addressing the logistical challenges posed by the ongoing pandemic.

The decision comes as the world prepares for the upcoming World Cup and the 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. The White House stated that the exemption will be in effect for the duration of these major events, ensuring that the United States can continue to compete on the global stage without hindrance.

The move is part of a broader effort to balance public health concerns with the need to support American athletes and the broader sports industry. The exemption is expected to be welcomed by athletes and coaches alike, who have been facing difficulties in securing travel permissions for international competitions.

The White House has emphasized that the exemption will be subject to strict health and safety protocols, including regular testing and adherence to local COVID-19 guidelines. This approach aims to mitigate the risk of virus transmission while allowing athletes to compete at the highest level.

The announcement follows a series of discussions between the White House and various sports organizations, including the United States Olympic & Paralympic Committee and the National Federation of State High School Associations. These organizations have been advocating for exemptions to ensure that American athletes can participate in international competitions without facing undue obstacles.

The new policy is expected to have significant implications for the sports industry, both domestically and internationally. It will not only facilitate the participation of American athletes but also boost the economy by promoting tourism and supporting local businesses that cater to sports events.

The White House has not yet released specific details on the implementation of this exemption, including the criteria for eligibility and the application process. However, it is anticipated that further guidance will be provided in the coming weeks.

References:
[1] https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/jun/04/how-will-south-korea-president-lee-jae-myung-engage-trump-white-house
[2] https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/articles/ckg42510nl2o