Just two days before the start of the World Cup 2026, controversy continues to surround the tournament in the United States. American authorities have intensified immigration controls, revoked visas, and expelled Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan. While football fans across the world prepare for the competition, several countries already face major obstacles before kickoff.
The United States placed countries such as Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast on its “blacklist.” FIFA secured exemptions for players and official delegations, but thousands of supporters cannot enter the country unless they obtained visas before January 1, 2026. Iran also changed its plans after American authorities forced Team Melli to establish its training camp in Mexico because of diplomatic tensions between Washington and Tehran.
World Cup 2026 increases pressure on FIFA and the US
Iranian officials strongly criticized the cancellation of ticket allocations reserved for their supporters. The Iranian Football Federation accused the United States of violating neutrality and fairness between participating nations. Team Melli must now travel in and out of the United States on matchdays for games scheduled in Los Angeles and Seattle, creating enormous logistical pressure before the tournament begins.
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan also reacted publicly after American immigration officers denied him entry despite his diplomatic passport and FIFA accreditation. He explained that authorities detained him for several hours before sending him back to Istanbul without giving clear explanations. FIFA accepted the American decision and reminded everyone that the host country controls all immigration procedures during the competition.
Strict security checks shock national teams
American customs officers also imposed heavy security checks on several national teams immediately after arrival. Officers inspected Senegal’s delegation directly on the airport tarmac in North Carolina before guiding players through metal detectors. Authorities also searched Uzbekistan’s squad with sniffer dogs and security equipment shortly after the players stepped off their bus.
These measures continue to fuel criticism around the organization of the World Cup 2026. FIFA president Gianni Infantino promised a tournament that would unite the world, but many observers now question whether the atmosphere surrounding the competition reflects that message. Despite the growing controversy, the tournament will officially begin with the opening match between Mexico and South Africa.
