ICE, Bag Searches and Denied Visas—How World Cup Teams Have Been Welcomed
Summary
Several international soccer teams arriving in the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup have faced detentions, intense border checks, and visa problems. Players and staff from countries like Iraq, Iran, Senegal, and Uzbekistan have experienced delays, searches, and in some cases, denial of entry.Key Facts
- Iraq’s forward Aymen Hussein was detained for hours and had his phone searched at Chicago O’Hare Airport before entering the U.S.
- The Iraqi team’s photographer, Talal Salah, was held for over 10 hours and then denied entry due to security concerns.
- Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan was also denied entry to the U.S. ahead of the tournament.
- Videos show Uzbekistan’s players undergoing thorough searches with sniffer dogs and metal detectors after arrival.
- Senegal’s players were seen on airport tarmacs being screened shortly after landing.
- Iran’s team faced visa restrictions forcing them to stay in Mexico and commute to the U.S. for matches.
- Iran’s soccer staff faced denied entry, and Iran’s allocated World Cup tickets were reportedly withdrawn days before their first game.
- These issues reflect tougher U.S. immigration enforcement affecting the upcoming World Cup.
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