Senegal and Ivory Coast fans risk missing 2026 World Cup due to U.S. travel ban
Supporters of Senegal and Ivory Coast could be left unable to attend matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after the United States expanded its travel ban list to include both countries, triggering concern among football fans and pundits. The tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico and scheduled to kick off on June 11, 2026 will see both African nations compete in group-stage matches in U.S. cities. However, new travel restrictions signed by U.S. President Donald Trump on December 16, 2025 impose partial entry limits on citizens of Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire, affecting non-immigrant visitors such as tourists and football fans who would travel to support their teams. The travel ban targets traveller categories including B1/B2 visitor visas, which are typically used by fans for short trips to attend sporting events. While exemptions exist for players, coaching staff, and immediate family members, regular supporters do not fall under these exceptions and therefore may be denied entry when applying for visas. The restrictions were reportedly linked to concerns over visa overstay rates as cited by the U.S. government, with both nations recording overstay figures that contributed to their inclusion on the list. As a result, many Senegalese and Ivorian fans now face uncertainty over their ability to attend World Cup matches on U.S. soil, even as their national teams prepare to compete.
About the Author
