World Cup 2026: Senegal FA clarifies viral airport security check involving national team

The Senegalese Football Federation has issued an official statement after a viral video sparked controversy by appearing to show members of the national team undergoing security checks on an airport tarmac in the United States ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

The footage generated widespread discussion online, with many observers interpreting the scene as disrespectful treatment of the Senegal delegation upon their arrival in the United States.

Federation Responds to Growing Controversy

In a statement released following the circulation of the video, the Senegalese Football Federation sought to clarify the circumstances surrounding the incident and address what it described as misinformation.

“Following the circulation of a video on social media showing players and members of the Senegalese national team’s coaching staff undergoing a security check on the tarmac of an airport, we would like to provide the following clarifications to avoid any misinterpretation,” the federation stated.

Inspection Took Place Before Departure

According to the federation, the security screening did not occur after the team’s arrival in San Antonio, as many reports suggested. Instead, it took place before departure from Raleigh Airport on Sunday, June 7, 2026.

The statement explained that the team’s bus transported players and staff directly from their hotel to the airport runway, allowing all security and police procedures to be completed beside the aircraft rather than inside the airport terminal.

Measure Aimed at Speeding Up Travel

The federation emphasised that the procedure was part of the logistical arrangements for the team’s journey and was designed to streamline the boarding process for the special flight to San Antonio.

The statement added that the measure helped reduce travel time and allowed the delegation to avoid passing through the airport’s standard departure areas and lounges.

No Incident Reported During Journey

The Senegalese Football Federation stressed that the security checks were conducted in full accordance with airport regulations and that no issues arose during the process.

“We would like to emphasise that this procedure was carried out in full compliance with applicable airport security rules, and no incident was reported,” the federation noted.

The statement concluded by confirming that the charter flight from Raleigh to San Antonio proceeded smoothly and that the entire delegation arrived safely at its destination as preparations for the World Cup continue.