Côte d’Ivoire supporters say US visa restrictions will prevent hundreds of fans from attending the 2026 World Cup, sparking anger and disappointment

Supporters of Côte d’Ivoire’s national team have raised concerns over their inability to travel to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, citing reported visa restrictions that have disrupted plans to attend matches.

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Officials of the National Committee of Elephant Supporters (CNSE) said efforts to send hundreds of fans to support the African champions have been severely affected, leaving many supporters disappointed.

The AFCON 2023 winners are scheduled to play two group-stage matches in the United States, including fixtures in Philadelphia, while another match will be held in Canada.

However, supporters’ representatives say administrative and visa challenges have made it impossible for most fans based in Côte d’Ivoire to travel.

CNSE president Julien Kouadio Adonis expressed frustration over the situation, claiming that authorities had made it clear that large groups of travelling supporters would not be accommodated.

“The supporters gave up the trip because the American state does not want to see supporters from certain countries, including Côte d’Ivoire, on its soil,” he said, according to reports.

He added that only a small number of officials have been granted permission to travel, significantly reducing planned fan participation.

Another supporters’ representative described the situation as emotionally difficult, saying it denies fans the opportunity to support their team and showcase their culture on the global stage.

The group had initially planned to send around 500 supporters to the tournament, but that ambition has now been scaled down sharply.

Those who are able to travel are expected to work with members of the Ivorian diaspora already residing in the United States to coordinate local support during matches.

Also read: US Denies Entry to Referee Omar Artan Ahead of World Cup

The development adds to wider concerns over entry processes ahead of the World Cup, with recent reports of visa-related issues affecting individuals linked to the tournament.