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Visa issues disrupt World Cup preparations ahead of 2026 tournament

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 9, 2026, 6:57 PM

Last updated Jun 9, 2026

Visa issues disrupt World Cup preparations ahead of 2026 tournament

Summary

Players, officials, and fans are facing visa and entry problems just days before the 2026 World Cup, set to begin on June 11. Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan has been denied entry to the United States and will not officiate, while Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein experienced a lengthy questioning at Chicago O'Hare airport. Meanwhile, Iran's delegation reports that multiple members have been refused visas, complicating their travel arrangements. South Africa’s squad also faced delays due to documentation issues. These incidents highlight increased scrutiny on immigration processes as teams prepare for the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•World Cup begins on June 11 across three countries.
•Omar Abdulkadir Artan banned from officiating due to entry denial.
•Aymen Hussein questioned for hours upon arrival.
•Iran claims multiple officials denied visas before the tournament.
•South Africa's squad experienced delays over documentation issues.

Latest Updates

6:57 PMYahoo Sports — Donald Trump’s immigration crackdown has led to nine controversial World Cup moments in past 48 hours

What they're saying

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Players, officials, staff members and supporters have faced a series of visa and entry problems in the final days before the 2026 World Cup. The tournament begins on 11 June and will be staged across the United States, Canada and Mexico.
— Yahoo Sports

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