Former English footballer, Ian Wright has condemned the decision of United States authorities to deny visas to football officials ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

He fumed that the host nation’s use of immigration policies to prevent officials from participating in the tournament is appalling.

The ex-Arsenal striker noted that expensive tickets, high transportation costs, and the denial of visas to football officials and referees undermine the integrity of the competition.

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“I just read that a Somalian referee had been denied entry to the US. Every hour it’s another story , fans denied, players denied, officials denied, and now referees. I’m laughing, but it’s not funny. Something has to be said about the expensive tickets, accommodation, and transportation costs going through the roof. The greatest tournament, and this is how the hosts behave?” Ian Wright questioned in a video shared on social media.

The sports pundit recalled how Qatar was heavily criticized for the 2022 World Cup, yet argued that the US is doing worse.

He described the tournament as the “World Cup of Chaos,” adding that he sympathizes with American football fans.

“Are we not hearing more? How they dragged Qatar, is this football? I feel for the American fans who are desperate for this. How embarrassed they must be. This is the World Cup of Chaos,” he added.

SB/JE

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