Iraqi supporter Abdulla Adnan spent $1,800 on tickets and travel but was denied a US visa, leaving him unable to see Iraq’s rare World Cup appearance. He is one of many fans blocked by bans, restrictions, or rejection rates above 40%.
African supporters voiced anger, with Ivory Coast’s Julien Kouadio Adonis calling the rules “a form of segregation.” Senegal’s Aliou Ngom, a veteran of past tournaments, said there was “no point” applying after repeated denials.
BBC data shows Senegal’s rejection rate above 70%, with Ghana, DR Congo, Iran, and Jordan also heavily affected. Jordan’s fan leader Abu Kass summed up the mood: “This World Cup is not ours. It’s for them.”
The US insists vetting is vital, but immigration lawyer Celine Atallah warns: “The visa system is the invisible gatekeeper of the World Cup.”
