Preparations for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States, Canada and Mexico have been marked by a series of travel disruptions, visa delays and heightened security procedures affecting players, officials and supporters.
In recent days, several national teams and individuals have reported difficulties entering the United States, with visa processing delays and stricter border checks causing logistical challenges ahead of the tournament.
Breel Embolo saw his visa application placed under review before eventually joining his squad after a delay, while Aymen Hussein was reportedly held for questioning for several hours upon arrival in the United States.
The Iran national football team also faced extended visa processing issues in Türkiye, with authorities reportedly allowing entry on match days only and denying visas to a portion of the delegation.
Security concerns also affected match officials. Omar Abdulkadir Artan, named CAF’s Best African Referee of 2025, was denied entry to the United States despite holding a diplomatic passport, with FIFA confirming he will not take part in the tournament.
The South Africa national football team arrived later than scheduled after parts of their delegation were not granted visas in time for travel.
There were also reports of strict security screening involving the Senegal national football team staff, who were subjected to extensive checks at airport security, and the Uzbekistan national football team, whose team searches involving sniffer dogs were widely shared on social media.
Fan travel has also been affected. Some Scotland national football team supporters, despite being eligible for visa-free travel under the ESTA programme, reportedly had their authorisations revoked shortly before departure.
In addition, numerous fans who had already purchased tickets and booked accommodation have had visa applications rejected, leading to financial losses and disrupted travel plans.
The developments have raised broader questions around travel access, security procedures and fan experience ahead of one of the world’s most watched sporting events.
