Visa denials, border incidents overshadow 2026 FIFA World Cup
Days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Iran, Iraq, Senegal, and Uzbekistan faced visa disputes, lengthy interrogations, and strict security procedures in the US. A Somali referee invited by FIFA was also denied entry, while FIFA’s silence drew widespread criticism.
Just days before the start of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, several countries have found themselves in the spotlight not for their on‑pitch preparations but for visa disputes, lengthy interrogations, and heightened security procedures. The treatment of delegations from Iran, Iraq, Senegal, and Uzbekistan — all World Cup qualifiers — as well as the US decision to deny entry to a Somali referee appointed by FIFA, has triggered widespread criticism across the sporting world. FIFA has faced growing scrutiny for remaining silent.
Iran, Iraq, and Somalia
Iran relocated its training camp from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, after US authorities denied visas to 13 administrative and technical personnel. Iraqi striker Aymen Hussein was reportedly interrogated for seven hours at Chicago O’Hare Airport, and the team’s official photographer was denied entry. Somalia’s Omar Abdulkadir Artan, named 2025 CAF Referee of the Year, was denied entry at Miami International Airport, dashing his chance to become the first Somali referee to officiate a World Cup match.
Senegal, Uzbekistan, and FIFA’s silence
Senegalese players underwent detailed individual security screenings, with videos circulating on social media. Uzbekistan, making its first‑ever World Cup appearance, faced similar treatment, including police dog inspections before a friendly against the Netherlands. Critics argue that FIFA’s failure to respond contradicts the inclusive spirit of a global sporting event.
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