Senegal prepares for World Cup amid fan visa issues

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Jun 15, 2026, 7:06 PM

Last updated Jun 15, 2026

Senegal prepares for World Cup amid fan visa issues
Summary

Senegal aims to make a strong impact at the World Cup despite not having fans present due to visa denials by U.S. authorities. Secretary general Abdoulaye Sow expressed disappointment over the absence of Senegalese supporters during the team's first two group matches, which begin against France on June 18. This marks Senegal's fourth World Cup appearance and the first without an official fan group funded by the government. Senegal hopes to overcome this challenge as they aim for a successful campaign, following a controversial Africa Cup of Nations victory in January.

Source Links
By the Numbers
  • Senegal plays their opening match against France on June 18.
  • Visa restrictions prevent fans from supporting the team in the U.S.
  • This is Senegal's fourth World Cup appearance.
  • They claimed the Africa Cup of Nations title earlier this year.
  • Abdoulaye Sow emphasizes that matches are won on the pitch.
Latest Updates
  • 7:06 PMYahoo SportsSenegal aim to overcome 'regrettable' absence of fans denied World Cup visas
What they're saying
"

The secretary general of the Senegalese Football Federation has told AFP he is confident his country can have a big impact at this year's World Cup despite the "regrettable" decision of US authorities to refuse to issue visas to their supporters."It is true that this World Cup is particularly difficult, but you know every country is a sovereign power and has its own rules," Abdoulaye Sow told AFP at the Senegal team base, an hour south of Manhattan.

Related Teams & Leagues

Sources

External links

Original reporting and copyright belong to the linked sources. SportsNewsReport.com aggregates and links — it does not republish full articles.

Related Stories

Last 14 days