Visa Bans and Ticket Disputes Threaten 2026 World Cup Access
The 2026 FIFA World Cup faces early chaos over visa bans and ticket disputes. Officials and fans report travel denials, restrictive policies, and confusing ticket rules before a single match kicks off. Somali referee Omar Artan was refused entry despite his FIFA appointment. Iranian staff and supporters also faced visa denials and ticket allocation hurdles. The Iraqi delegation reported lengthy questioning and outright refusals, while South African fans struggled with last-minute documentation delays. Many supporters complain of sudden ticket cancellations, pricing errors, and expensive visa processes. Families worry that bureaucracy will become the biggest obstacle to a once-in-a-lifetime trip. Critics argue FIFA should have negotiated stronger guarantees to ensure a truly inclusive tournament.
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