Visa issues hinder fans and players during World Cup in the U.S
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 12, 2026, 5:58 PM
Last updated Jun 12, 2026
The FIFA World Cup in North America is facing complications for attendees due to stringent U.S. border policies. Reports indicate that fans and players from several countries, including Iraq and Somalia, have been interrogated or denied entry., Iraqi player Aymen Hussein faced a seven-hour interrogation upon arrival, while Somali referee Omar Artan was turned away after 11 hours. Delegations from Senegal and the Ivory Coast also reported canceled trips due to visa restrictions imposed on supporters from certain countries. Despite these challenges, American public enthusiasm remains positive, as seen in the welcoming reception of the Algerian team in Kansas.
- •Aymen Hussein was interrogated for seven hours upon arrival in Chicago.
- •Somali referee Omar Artan was turned away after long questioning.
- •Senegal and Ivory Coast canceled fan delegations due to visa issues.
- •150 Ghanaian fans applied for visas; only three were granted.
- •Algerian team receives a warm welcome during training in Kansas.
- 5:58 PMYahoo Sports — 'Why Is America Hosting the World Cup If It Is So Hostile?': Trump's Border Crackdown Spoils Soccer Tournament
"America pushed to host the international tournament. Now the government is hassling fans, official guests, and even players who want to come.
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