Ivory Coast Fans Denied US Visas, Forced to Cancel World Cup Trip

Supporters of the Ivory Coast national football team have been forced to abandon plans to travel to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after being denied visas, according to officials from the country’s supporters’ association.

The development adds to growing concerns surrounding visa and entry policies ahead of the tournament, which officially kicks off on Thursday across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

According to Julien Kouadio Adonis, president of the National Committee of Elephants Supporters (CNSE), hundreds of Ivorian fans who had hoped to support their national team at the tournament will now miss the competition.

Supporters Forced to Cancel Travel Plans

The CNSE, which operates under Ivory Coast’s Ministry of Sport, is responsible for organizing and coordinating supporters travelling abroad to cheer on the national team.

Speaking on the situation, Kouadio expressed disappointment over the decision.

“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,” he said.

“The United States has been clear with us, saying they do not want to see our supporters.”

His remarks highlight the frustration felt by many supporters who had spent months preparing to attend football’s biggest tournament.

‘A Painful Situation’ for Ivorian Fans

Kouadio described the visa denials as a painful setback for supporters who view following the national team as an important responsibility.

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

In March, the supporters’ organization had announced plans to send approximately 500 fans across the Atlantic to back the Elephants during their World Cup campaign.

Those plans have now collapsed following the visa issues.

Ivory Coast’s World Cup Schedule

Ivory Coast will play two of their three group-stage matches in the United States.

The Elephants begin their campaign against Ecuador in Philadelphia on June 15 before travelling to Toronto, Canada, where they will face Germany.

Their final group-stage match will see them return to Philadelphia to take on Curacao on June 25.

The absence of a large travelling fan base could be a significant blow as the team seeks to make an impact on the global stage.

Only a Few Officials Granted Entry

Despite the widespread visa denials, Kouadio revealed that a small number of CNSE officials have received authorization to travel to the tournament.

According to the supporters’ chief, these officials will be tasked with coordinating and assisting Ivorians already living in North America who plan to attend matches.

“A handful of CNSE officials have been authorised to travel to the World Cup where they will look after the Ivorian supporters based in the United States,” he explained.

Growing Concerns Over World Cup Visa Policies

The controversy comes amid increasing scrutiny of visa and immigration policies ahead of the expanded 48-team World Cup.

Recent reports indicated that Somali referee Omar Artan was denied entry into the United States, while several support staff members travelling with Iran were also reportedly refused visas.

The incidents have sparked debate over whether travel restrictions could impact the inclusiveness and global spirit traditionally associated with the FIFA World Cup.

With millions of fans expected to travel across North America during the month-long tournament, stakeholders will be watching closely to see whether similar issues affect supporters from other participating nations.

For Ivory Coast supporters, however, the damage has already been done, leaving many to cheer on the Elephants from home instead of from the stands.