U.S. Denies Visas to Senegalese Football Officials Ahead of World Cup

The U.S. Embassy in Dakar has reportedly denied visa applications for six officials from the Senegalese Football Federation, including a vice president, in connection with the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup.

This denial has raised fresh concerns regarding access and participation logistics for African football administrators involved in the global tournament. Sources indicate that the visa refusals occurred despite existing provisions expected to facilitate entry for accredited football officials and team delegations connected to the World Cup.

The situation has sparked unease within African football circles, with stakeholders questioning the consistency of U.S. immigration policy as preparations intensify for the co-hosting of the tournament by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. As of now, the Senegalese Football Federation has not released an official statement regarding the matter, and the U.S.

Embassy in Dakar has not publicly commented on the specific reasons for the visa denials.