Explanatory note

This Order prescribes the control period under the Football Spectators Act 1989 (c. 37) (“the 1989 Act”) for the 2026 FIFA (Fédération Internationale de Football Association) World Cup in the United States of America, Mexico and Canada. The control period begins on 1st June 2026, which is ten days before the first match in the tournament, and ends when the last match in the tournament is finished or cancelled. The last match is due to be played on 19th July 2026.

During the control period, powers under sections 21A and 21B of the 1989 Act (summary powers to detain and refer to a court with a view to making a banning order) are exercisable. Individuals subject to a banning order may be required to surrender their passports during a control period under section 19 of the 1989 Act. In addition, bail conditions can be imposed on individuals requiring them to surrender their passports during a control period under section 14A (banning orders made on conviction of an offence) and section 14B (banning orders made on a complaint) of the 1989 Act.

A full impact assessment has not been produced for this instrument as no, or no significant, impact on the private or voluntary sector or community bodies is foreseen.