The 2026 World Cup is marred by visa issues and strict US border controls affecting teams from Iran, Iraq, Somalia, and Senegal. Players and officials face prolonged interrogations, denied entry, and restrictive conditions, raising human rights concerns.
The US government is facing sharp criticism from human rights experts and immigration advocates over visa complications and entry denials for athletes and officials participating in the FIFA World Cup. Incidents involving a Somali referee, the Iranian football team, and Iraqi players have highlighted concerns about discrimination and geopolitical tensions impacting the tournament.
Iran criticizes the US for denying visas to key members of its World Cup squad, including the team manager, Foreign Ministry representatives, and others, despite granting visas to players.
Iran criticizes the US for denying visas to key members of its World Cup team's delegation, calling it 'discriminatory treatment', despite players receiving visas just before their first match.
Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Alexander Alimov described the ongoing US visa denials for Russian citizens as a "regrettable situation." He stated that bilateral consultations with the US State Department are complex but expressed hope for a resolution, noting that the intensity of talks fluctuates.
