(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
White House Defends Visa Decisions for Referee and Iranian Officials Ahead of World Cup
The White House has defended its decision to deny entry visas to a Somali referee and some Iranian football support staff ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, saying the measures were taken on national security grounds.
Andrew Giuliani, head of the White House World Cup Task Force, said that while all participating teams have been allowed entry into the United States, some officials were denied visas after security vetting.
He stated that no players or coaches had been refused entry, but added that authorities must ensure that individuals with potential security concerns do not gain access under the tournament’s arrangements.
A U.S. State Department official reportedly said the Somali referee was flagged due to alleged associations with individuals linked to security risks, making him ineligible for entry under immigration rules.
The decision has sparked debate internationally, especially as the referee had been selected among FIFA’s elite officials for the tournament and was expected to make history as the first Somali referee at a World Cup.
Iran Team Staff Also Affected
Reports also indicate that some members of Iran’s support staff were denied visas or faced restrictions, although U.S. officials maintained that essential team personnel were cleared for participation.
Iranian officials have raised concerns about access limitations, while U.S. authorities insist the actions are part of routine security screening procedures.
Security Measures Intensified
Officials said security checks have been strengthened ahead of the global tournament, with intelligence agencies closely monitoring potential threats.
