World Cup 2026: England national team concerned about turning into “political spokesmen”

The chief executive of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) has said England players are worried they will turn into “political spokesmen” at the World Cup.

The tournament, hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, begins on June 11.

But coupled with the ongoing conflict between the United States and Iran, the military buildup has rights groups concerned about issues such as the Trump administration’s immigration policies.

Meanwhile, Mexico’s ability to welcome fans has been called into question after an outbreak of gang violence sparked by the death of gang leader Nemesio Oseguera Cervantes, known as “El Mencho.”

Speaking to Sky News,, external The FA’s Maheta Molango said England players had asked for guidance on how to handle calls to speak out when they come from human rights activists and media organisations.

Mulango explained that some feel they have previously been put in a difficult position by being asked to comment on complex social issues – for example, at the recent World Cup finals in Qatar where gay rights were highlighted in a country where homosexuality can be punished by death.

“We’re talking about smart people, socially aware people, people who realize they’re not living in a bubble,” Mulango said.

“However, what some of them told me is that they found it somewhat unfair that, ultimately, even though they have a platform, why should they turn into spokespersons for governments or administrative bodies that should actually be the ones taking the lead?

“I think some of them have felt that in the past – and we’ve seen it, for example, in Qatar – some of them have basically been hung out to dry.

“Because instead of the government or governing body showing leadership on certain topics, players are suddenly being asked to become political spokespeople and that is not what they are now.

“These guys get paid to put on a show on the field.”