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On the Eve of the World Cup, U.S. Immigration Policy Turns Some Away

10 June 2026 at 10:04
Some fans and participants hoping to enter the United States for the World Cup have complained that restrictive immigration rules have presented a roadblock.

© Ahmad Al-Rubaye/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

Iraqi soccer player Aymen Hussein, pictured in a mural near Baghdad wearing his No. 18 jersey, was temporarily detained by U.S. immigration officials before being allowed to enter the country for the World Cup.

U.S. Denies Entry to World Cup Referee From Somalia

Omar Artan was one of 52 referees selected for the FIFA World Cup. But on Saturday he was denied entry because of “vetting concerns,” U.S. officials said.

© Khaled Desouki/Agence France-Presse — Getty Images

Omar Artan will not officiate games at the World Cup, FIFA said.

Iran’s Soccer Team Allowed Into U.S. for World Cup, but Many Staff Denied

6 June 2026 at 01:16
After months of doubts over their participation, Iran’s players have received visas for the United States just days before the World Cup begins.

© Khalil Hamra/Associated Press

Members of Iran’s national soccer team training in Antalya, Turkey, on Tuesday.
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