U.S. Embassy denies EIGHT Senegal FA officials visas ahead of 2026 World Cup

The United States Embassy in Dakar has reportedly refused entry visas to two additional members of the Senegal Football Federation, intensifying concerns within the country’s football administration ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

AfricaSoccer.com first reported the development on Wednesday, May 6; a total of six officials from the Senegalese Football Federation—including a vice president—had already been denied visas earlier in the week.

The latest refusals bring fresh uncertainty over the participation of key administrative personnel in preparatory activities linked to the tournament.

Sources familiar with the matter indicate that the affected officials were scheduled to travel on official duty connected to the global football event.

However, their visa applications were turned down by U.S. authorities. The specific reasons for the decisions have not been disclosed publicly.

The situation has stirred unease within Senegalese football circles, particularly given the proximity of the tournament and the administrative importance of the delegation.

Stakeholders have expressed concern over the potential disruption to planning and coordination efforts ahead of the World Cup.

The incident also comes amid wider reports suggesting stricter visa procedures being applied to several African countries in the build-up to the tournament.

This is despite earlier assurances from football authorities that participating teams and accredited officials would benefit from streamlined entry arrangements across host nations.

So far, no official explanation has been provided regarding the refusals, and the matter continues to fuel debate over coordination between host countries and participating federations as preparations for the expanded tournament gather pace.

Senegal have already secured qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and are drawn in Group I alongside France, Iraq, and Norway in what is expected to be one of the most competitive groups of the tournament.

Meanwhile, the Senegalese Football Federation has yet to issue an official statement addressing the visa denials or outlining any potential implications for its World Cup preparations.