As an Egyptian sports journalist with 16 years of experience covering Arab athletes at the highest levels, this FIFA World Cup was expected to be one of the most thrilling events of my career. With an unprecedented eight Arab teams qualifying for the expanded tournament in North America, I anticipated diving into the unique stories of each squad. Instead, I am filled with anger and frustration as numerous logistical controversies overshadow the build-up to the World Cup.
Visa Issues Plague Teams and Officials
Over the past week, a series of troubling headlines have emerged. Iraq striker Aymen Hussein was questioned for seven hours at Chicago's O'Hare airport, while team photographer Talal Salah was denied entry into the United States. The Iranian team faced last-minute visa approvals, with at least 15 officials and staffers rejected. Iran had to move their base camp from Tucson, Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico due to security concerns and strict visa rules that prohibit overnight stays in the US. Additionally, the US reportedly revoked Iran's ticket allocation for group games.
Referee Denied Entry
Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan, named CAF Referee of the Year in 2025, was interrogated for 11 hours at Miami International Airport and denied entry, despite having a valid visa. Artan, one of seven African referees selected for the tournament, expressed deep disappointment. US Customs and Border Protection cited 'vetting concerns,' and FIFA stated it does not intervene in immigration processes, meaning Artan will no longer officiate.
Widespread Impact on Journalists and Fans
Many journalists and fans from Africa and the Middle East have reported visa denials, undermining FIFA's expectation of a visa-friendly environment. According to FIFA rules, host nations should facilitate visa procedures for World Cup participants. However, the US has imposed travel bans on several countries, including Ivory Coast, Senegal, Haiti, and DR Congo.
Reactions from Football Figures
Former England striker Ian Wright criticized the situation on social media, calling it 'the World Cup of chaos.' He expressed embarrassment for American fans. Former Egypt striker Ahmed Hossam 'Mido' warned of a tournament full of problems, noting that fans with booked tickets and accommodation had visas rejected. He questioned why critics of Qatar's 2022 World Cup remained silent now.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino had promised that all teams and fans would be 'welcome in America,' but these assurances have proven hollow. The tournament kicks off amid growing discontent, with many feeling that the spirit of football has been compromised by political and logistical failures.
