Several national teams, officials and supporters heading to the 2026 World Cup have experienced widespread travel disruptions over the past 48 hours, with visa delays, prolonged questioning at entry points and increased security screening raising concerns about access procedures ahead of the tournament in the United States.
Reports indicate that Swiss international player Embolo experienced a temporary visa review process that delayed his arrival to join his national squad, while Iraqi forward Aymen Hussein was reportedly held for questioning for several hours after arriving in the United States before being cleared to proceed. These incidents form part of a broader pattern of heightened immigration scrutiny affecting multiple delegations.
Brandspur Politics reports that the situation has also affected several African and Asian teams, with the Iranian national squad facing extended visa processing challenges at a United States consular mission in Türkiye, where approvals were staggered and only partially granted, leaving a number of delegation members unable to secure entry ahead of the competition.
Further complications were recorded for match officials, as CAF’s 2025 Best African Referee, Omar Abdulkadir Artan, was denied entry despite travelling with a diplomatic passport, a decision that ultimately prevents him from officiating at the tournament, according to official confirmation from football authorities.
Logistical setbacks have also affected team preparations, with South Africa’s national squad arriving later than scheduled after part of its delegation failed to receive timely visa clearance. Similar operational disruptions were reported for Senegal’s team staff, who underwent extended security searches upon arrival, drawing allegations of discriminatory treatment.
The Uzbekistan national team also came under intense screening procedures, including searches involving security dogs, footage of which circulated widely on international platforms, further intensifying debate around border protocols for visiting teams.
Supporters have not been spared from the challenges, as some Scottish fans reportedly had their travel authorisations revoked shortly before departure despite being eligible under the visa waiver system. Additionally, several international ticket holders faced visa rejections that resulted in financial losses tied to travel and accommodation arrangements.
The growing list of incidents has drawn attention to entry and security processes surrounding the tournament, raising questions about consistency in visa approvals and the broader experience of teams, officials and fans travelling to the United States for the global football event.
