It is 2026, and the atmosphere surrounding travel to the United States is… well, let’s just say “complicated.” Since the re-election and subsequent inauguration of Donald Trump in early 2025, the diplomatic relationship between the Netherlands and the US has become as chilly as a January morning on a frozen canal.
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, Dutch fans are facing a massive dilemma: do we follow the Oranje squad across the Atlantic, or do we stay home and watch from the safety of our own couches?
Here’s why “Orange Fever” is currently feeling a lot like “Cold Feet.”
The Return of the “What Now?” Era
Since President Trump moved back into the White House, global politics has moved at a breakneck pace. From renewed talk of annexing Greenland to trade tariffs that seem specifically designed to make Dutch tulips and cheese more expensive, the tension is palpable.
Recent polls show that a staggering 77% of Dutch people view the US as a primary source of global uncertainty. This isn’t just political chatter; it directly impacts our holiday plans. Where we once dreamed of cruising Route 66, we now worry about being grilled at the border about our social media posts from 2012.
Is There a “Do Not Travel” Advice?
There has been a lot of buzz about the current travel status. While the official map on Nederland Wereldwijd hasn’t turned “Red” for the entire country, the tone of the warnings has definitely shifted from “Enjoy the Grand Canyon” to “Watch your back.”
- Amnesty International Warnings: The organization has issued a stern warning for World Cup fans, citing “serious human rights risks” and a climate of fear fueled by aggressive surveillance from agencies like ICE.
- The Border Gamble: Executive Order 14161 has brought back strict vetting procedures. For many fans—especially those with dual nationalities or who have visited “unapproved” countries—getting an ESTA is now about as easy as finding a parking spot in Amsterdam on a Saturday.
- Social Unrest: The deep polarization in American cities has many Dutch travelers feeling like they might accidentally walk into a protest instead of a stadium.
The “Orange” Anxiety: Dallas, Houston, and… Kansas City?
The Dutch national team is scheduled to play its group matches in Dallas, Houston, and Kansas City. Normally, this would result in a sea of orange taking over Texas, but the hesitation is real:
- Visa Hurdles: Fans are terrified of being “randomly selected” for a four-hour interrogation in a windowless room just because they forgot to declare a stray stroopwafel.
- The Boycott Movement: A petition to boycott the World Cup has already surpassed 100,000 signatures. Many fans simply don’t want to spend their hard-earned Euros in a country whose current administration makes them feel unwelcome.
- Safety of the “Legioen”: The KNVB is in constant contact with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. The question isn’t just whether we can go, but whether it’s worth the stress.
Pro-Tip for the Brave (or Stubborn) Fan: If you do decide to head over to support Oranje, ensure your paperwork is more perfect than a Virgil van Dijk tackle. Expect long lines, intense questions, and maybe pack a few extra snacks—you might be in the customs hall for a while.
The Bottom Line
It’s a strange time to be a football fan. The love for the game is clashing head-on with a deep-seated unease about the political climate in the States. Whether the “Orange Army” will actually show up in full force in those American stadiums remains to be seen. One thing is certain: this World Cup requires more mental preparation than a penalty shootout.
Are you brave enough to book that flight to Dallas, or are you keeping the bitterballen and the beer at home this year?
