The 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to be held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico from June to July, will feature 48 teams, with most matches hosted across 11 stadiums in the U.S. Football fans are eagerly anticipating watching their favorite teams in action, but recent developments from the Trump administration have created uncertainty for two qualified nations.
On Tuesday, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a new travel ban, extending restrictions to the Ivory Coast and Senegal. Both nations have secured their place in the 2026 World Cup through the African qualifying rounds. A White House statement described the restrictions as “partial bans and restricted entry.” This move adds Ivory Coast and Senegal to a growing list of 39 countries already affected by previous travel bans, including Iran and Haiti, both of which were also set to participate in the tournament.
“The travel ban is aimed at curbing visa overstays,” said a Department of Homeland Security spokesperson. “About 4 percent of Senegalese and 8 percent of Ivorian visitors on B-1/B-2 visas have overstayed in the U.S.” The ban explicitly exempts athletes, diplomats, and others deemed “necessary in the national interest of the United States.”
World Cup Concerns Over Fans and Fast-Track Visas
In response to World Cup preparations, the Trump administration has created a dedicated task force, chaired by Andrew Giuliani, introducing a fast-track visa system for fans. Under this FIFA-led initiative, ticket holders will receive priority scheduling for visa interviews. However, how this system will accommodate fans from banned countries remains unclear, raising concerns about their participation.
“The uncertainty over entry for Senegalese and Ivorian fans is troubling,” noted a football analyst. “While players are exempt, supporters may face hurdles attending matches in the U.S., which could impact the tournament atmosphere.”
The World Cup will officially kick off on June 11, 2026, at Mexico City’s Azteca Stadium. Before the main tournament, Senegal and the United States are scheduled to play an international friendly on May 31 in Charlotte, North Carolina. In the group stages, the Ivory Coast has been placed in Group E alongside Germany, Curacao, and Ecuador. At the same time, Senegal will compete in Group I against France, Norway, and a European play-off team.
Also Read: Major Blow: Indian Football Giants Handed Two-Year Ban