Mexico city: Palestinian Football Association President Jibril Rajoub has criticized the United States for not granting him a visa to attend World Cup-related events, stating that the delay shows a lack of respect for FIFA and the unifying nature of the sport.
According to Anadolu Agency, Rajoub was present at the opening match of the FIFA World Cup between Mexico and South Africa in Mexico City. However, he remains among several accredited participants who have either been denied US visas or are still awaiting approval to enter the country.
In an exclusive statement from Mexico, Rajoub expressed his frustration over the situation, highlighting his entitlement to participate in World Cup activities as the head of the Palestinian Football Association. "I believe that FIFA regulations, or at least its traditions, require any country hosting a global event to honor its obligations toward that event by facilitating the entry of everyone connected to it," Rajoub stated.
He emphasized the importance of the World Cup as a global sporting event, asserting that participation by football federation presidents in related activities, including the FIFA Congress, mandates host countries to facilitate their entry. "This is not a favor on their part; it is a right, and they are obligated to uphold it," he added.
Rajoub argued that the failure to facilitate entry for participants undermines the principles associated with hosting a global sporting event. "Through this behavior, they are stripping themselves of the moral right to host such a major sporting event," he said.
Rajoub also pointed out that he is not alone in facing such difficulties, as others are experiencing similar challenges. "Up to this moment, I have not received approval to enter, and I believe I am not the only one. There are many others facing the same problem," he noted.
He expressed concern that the issue extends beyond individual cases, impacting the broader values promoted by international sport. "I see this as a sign of disrespect not only toward FIFA, but also toward the sporting message that unites people and builds bridges between them. In the end, this is a global event, not an event that belongs solely to the United States," Rajoub commented.
Recent visa-related issues have heightened concerns ahead of international football events hosted by the US. Earlier this month, officials from Iran's Football Federation reported delays in receiving US visas for activities related to the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Additionally, Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan could not travel to the US to officiate at the FIFA Club World Cup due to a delayed visa application.
Concerns have also been raised about the ability of some supporters to attend competitions in the US. Reports suggest that fans from several countries, including the Ivory Coast, may face challenges traveling to the country due to visa restrictions and entry requirements. The US is co-hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico.