WASHINGTON — Visa denials and entry restrictions linked to the 2026 FIFA World Cup have strained diplomatic relations between the United States and several participating nations, as governments protested decisions affecting team officials, referees and supporters while U.S. authorities defended the measures as matters of national security.
The tournament, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, has been overshadowed by a series of immigration disputes since before kickoff, prompting criticism from affected football federations and foreign governments that say the restrictions have undermined the inclusive character of the competition.
Among the highest-profile incidents, U.S. authorities denied entry to Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan despite his selection by FIFA to officiate at the tournament. U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the traveler was found inadmissible following inspection and declined to disclose further details, while FIFA said immigration decisions rest with national governments.
Iran also complained after several members of its football delegation were denied U.S. visas, forcing the team to establish its training base in neighboring Mexico and travel into the United States for matches. U.S. officials said visas had been issued for players and essential support personnel, while Iranian authorities argued that excluded officials remained integral to the delegation.
Supporters from several African nations have likewise encountered visa refusals. A prominent Democratic Republic of Congo football supporter was unable to attend his country's group-stage match in Atlanta after being denied a visa, while football officials in other countries reported that organized fan groups had canceled travel plans following unsuccessful applications.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino has acknowledged concerns over visa issues but said the governing body cannot overrule sovereign immigration policies. Speaking before the tournament opened, he said FIFA would continue working with host governments while emphasizing that border control decisions remain outside the organization's authority.
The immigration disputes have also drawn attention beyond football. International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry said organizers of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics were working with U.S. authorities to avoid a repeat of the World Cup's visa problems by strengthening coordination with immigration agencies well before the Games.
As the World Cup continues, U.S. officials have maintained that entry decisions are made under existing immigration law and security procedures, while affected governments and football authorities continue seeking the admission of remaining officials and supporters whose applications are still under review or subject to appeal.
