The World Cup is shedding new light on the pathologies of the Trump regime, as players and fans face visa denials, threats of ICE raids on stadiums, and controversial political rhetoric. Swiss forward Breel Embolo was initially denied an Esta visa waiver just hours before his flight to the United States on June 5, raising questions about the safety of visiting the country.
Breel Embolo's Visa Ordeal
Embolo, Switzerland's first-choice striker, was blocked from traveling to San Diego for the World Cup. The Swiss authorities remained optimistic, but the incident highlighted the risks faced by international visitors. Had Embolo been denied entry on US soil, he could have faced weeks in detention, as has happened to other tourists.
The reasons for the denial remain unclear. Speculation ranges from a misunderstanding of the term "strike" (Embolo is a striker) to his 2018 criminal conviction for an altercation, though many footballers have similar records. Critics point to racism as a possible factor, especially given the Trump administration's track record on immigration. After a brief delay, Embolo's visa was approved, but the damage to perceptions of US hospitality was done.
Fan Surveillance and Political Profiling
Traveling fans also face scrutiny. Scottish supporters reportedly had their Esta status changed to "travel not authorised" after their social media posts were reviewed for anti-Trump sentiment. This practice raises concerns about political profiling and the erosion of free speech.
The concept of "pathocracy"—a system where a pathological minority controls a society—is increasingly applied to the US. Pete Hegseth's D-day speech, which equated migrants with Nazis, exemplifies this trend. The World Cup serves as a global stage for such boundary-testing, as governments and football authorities tolerate increasingly extreme behavior.
A Call for Awareness
Shaista Aziz, founder of The 3 Hijabis and a campaigner against racism in football, alongside the Stop Trump Coalition, has highlighted these issues. The message is clear: the US is not a safe destination for all visitors. As the tournament progresses, fans and players alike are urged to recognize and name the injustices they witness.
Zoe Williams is a Guardian columnist. This article reflects her views on the intersection of football and politics.
