Supporters of Ivory Coast have been unable to secure visas to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, according to the head of the country’s official supporters’ body.
Julien Kouadio Adonis, president of the National Committee of Elephants Supporters, said the visa refusals had compelled many fans to shelve plans to travel for the tournament, which begins on Thursday.
The issue adds to growing concerns surrounding US visa restrictions in the lead-up to the World Cup. Reports earlier this week indicated that Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry, while some members of Iran’s national team support staff also faced visa refusals.
Commenting on the development, Kouadio said supporters were left with little option but to cancel their trips.
“The supporters have cancelled the trip because the US government does not want to see supporters from certain countries, including the Ivory Coast, on its soil.
“The United States has been clear with us, saying they do not want to see our supporters,” he said.
