Argentina’s government has officially banned 15,000 football fans from traveling to the 2025 Club World Cup, citing public safety risks and a broader effort to curb football hooliganism. The measure, announced by Security Minister Patricia Bullrich, targets individuals with documented records of violence, stadium bans, or criminal behavior.

The move is part of the government’s Tribuna Segura program, a national initiative designed to identify and restrict access to violent fans, particularly those associated with the country’s infamous barra brava supporter groups.

 
Boca Juniors and River Plate Ultras Targeted

The Club World Cup 2025 fan ban affects supporters from multiple clubs, but a large proportion are believed to be linked to high-risk groups from Boca Juniors and River Plate, Argentina’s two biggest football institutions. These fans, long known for their passionate support and turbulent history of clashes, will be blocked from entering stadiums abroad during the tournament.

A fan blacklist, developed in collaboration with the US Embassy in Buenos Aires, is being distributed to immigration authorities and international tournament organizers. The list aims to prevent known agitators from disrupting matches and compromising fan safety.

 
Argentina-US Security Cooperation Strengthens

The decision comes amid increased Argentina-US security cooperation, as both nations prepare for a surge in international travel for football events. Club World Cup security measures have been escalated after recent reports of growing fan violence in South America and beyond.

“We are working with international partners to guarantee safety and ensure violent fans do not ruin this global event,” said Bullrich. “This is not censorship—this is stadium violence prevention.”
President Javier Milei, who has made law enforcement and public safety a top priority of his administration, endorsed the measure, describing it as a “necessary step to restore order in Argentine football.”

 
What This Means for the Club World Cup

As the Club World Cup fan safety strategy ramps up, the fan travel restrictions raise important questions about the balance between global fan engagement and local enforcement. Organizers have welcomed the move, citing it as essential for maintaining order during the month-long event.

For now, the 15,000 banned fans will miss out on what could be a historic tournament—especially if Argentine clubs such as River Plate or Boca Juniors secure qualification.

 
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