BREAKING NEWS: US authorities deny Ivory Coast supporters visas for World Cup 2026

Ivory Coast travelling supporters have been denied visas by the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup, according to the president of the country’s national supporters’ committee.

Julien Kouadio Adonis, president of the National Committee of Elephants Supporters (CNSE), revealed that the visa refusals have forced many supporters to abandon plans to travel to the tournament, which begins on Thursday.

The development adds to growing concerns over visa-related issues surrounding the World Cup, co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.

In recent days, Somali referee Omar Artan was reportedly denied entry to the United States, while several members of Iran’s backroom staff have also faced visa challenges.

Speaking on the situation, Kouadio expressed disappointment at the decision, insisting that Ivorian supporters had hoped to be present to cheer on the national team.

“The supporters have cancelled the trip because the US government does not want to see supporters from certain countries, including Ivory Coast, on its soil. The United States has been clear with us, saying they do not want to see our supporters,” said Kouadio.

“This situation hurts us deeply because it prevents us from fulfilling our sacred duty, which is to support our team.”

The CNSE, which operates under the supervision of the Ministry of Sport, is responsible for organising travel arrangements for supporters following the national team abroad.

Earlier this year, Kouadio had expressed optimism that around 500 fans would make the journey across the Atlantic to support the Elephants during the tournament.

Despite the visa setback, a small number of CNSE officials have been granted permission to travel and will be tasked with coordinating and assisting Ivorian supporters already residing in the United States.

According to the committee, more than 1,000 Ivory Coast supporters based in North America are expected to attend the team’s matches during the competition.

Ivory Coast have been drawn in Group E alongside Ecuador, Curacao and Germany. Their campaign begins against Ecuador in Philadelphia on June 15 before they face Germany in Toronto and conclude the group stage against Curacao back in Philadelphia on June 25.

The absence of a significant contingent of travelling supporters is expected to be a disappointment for both the fans and the team as Ivory Coast look to make an impact on football’s biggest stage.