Five World Cup countries worried about Trump’s new decision

There are less than three months left for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to start. But diplomatic tensions are already high. The situation has become more complicated as US President Donald Trump's administration has imposed new restrictions on some countries.

Several of the countries that have been restricted are going to participate in the upcoming World Cup. As a result, concerns have been raised about obtaining visas and entering the United States for their players, officials and supporters.

According to AS Sports, a new list will come into effect from April 2. Citizens of countries included in this list will have to deposit a deposit (visa bond) of between $5,000 and $15,000 to apply for a B1/B2 visa. There are a total of 50 countries on the list, of which 5 countries will play in the upcoming FIFA World Cup. As a result, concerns are growing in the countries concerned about this rule.

The countries affected by the ban and participating in the World Cup are Algeria, Cape Verde, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Tunisia. The US State Department will determine the amount of the bond for applicants after conducting mandatory visa interviews.

The US media outlet The Athletic reported that discussions are underway between the US State Department and FIFA on the matter. The aim is to slightly relax the visa bond requirements for players, coaching staff and official representatives from these five countries. However, there is no possibility of providing any such benefits for their family members at this time.

Although before the introduction of this new policy, it was quite difficult for citizens of countries such as Senegal and Ivory Coast to enter the United States. Visas were usually not granted except in special circumstances. It is feared that the situation may become even stricter for them with the addition of new financial conditions.